Unit 7, Day 2

 Compared to other politicians, Kennedy appeared youthful, energetic and charismatic.  In his Convention acceptance speech, he likened the 1960s to a New Frontier, a term used to refer to the new domestic policies Kennedy hoped to implement.  His presidency was sometimes referred to as ‘Camelot’ because he was the youth that commanded the kingdom.  Kennedy’s advisors came from very prominent jobs and were known as the ‘best and the brightest’.

 Although Kennedy is well-remembered for his foreign policy, he did a lot to improve the U.S. domestically (at home) as well.  Kennedy implemented John Maynard Keynes’ idea of deficit spending to spur the economy, which experienced a recession in ▪ He spent billions of dollars to try and help stimulate the economy. It worked… the 4 years after Kennedy’s entrance were one of the greatest economic expansions.  Kennedy introduced a civil rights bill in 1963, encouraged by the efforts of MLK.  He also increased funding to the space program and committed the U.S to landing a man on the moon by 1970.

 In November of 1963, Kennedy traveled to Dallas, Texas to begin his bid for re-election in  He was shot by Lee Harvey Oswald, although many believed he had an accomplice.  The Warren Commission conducted the investigation into his death and declared that Oswald was the ‘lone killer.’

 Johnson continued Kennedy’s domestic plan of eliminating poverty, in tribute to the fallen president.  He used his persuasive attitude to get the Civil Rights Act of 1964 passed;  He pushed a tax bill through adding $1 billion to combat the ‘War on Poverty’;  He passed the Economic Opportunity Act in 1964 which started the Job Corps to provide training to young Americans.

 Johnson’s domestic plan became known as the Great Society. Changes included:  The passage of Medicare and Medicaid, providing medical services to the elderly and the poor;  Increased aid to schools in poorer communities;  Environmental and consumer protection;  New immigration policies benefitting Eastern Europeans.

 Under chief justice Earl Warren, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on several important cases that expanded American rights.  Baker v. Carr (1962)  courts could intervene on state apportionment (voting districts based on pop’n)  Gideon v. Wainwright (1963)  court-appointed attorney if one cannot be afforded.  Miranda v. Arizona (1966)  accused criminal has the right to be informed of their 5 th and 6 th amendment rights before questioning.  Engle v. Vitale (1962)  prayer in school is not allowed; violates separation of church and state.