John F. Kennedy — Quotes

“Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.”

— John F. Kennedy · From his inaugural address on January 20, 1961, challenging Americans to civic participation and service.

“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”

— John F. Kennedy · Often attributed to Kennedy in speeches about civil rights and moral responsibility, though the quote's original authorship is disputed.

“Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate.”

— John F. Kennedy · From his inaugural address, expressing his approach to Cold War diplomacy and international relations.

“We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard.”

— John F. Kennedy · From his speech at Rice University on September 12, 1962, announcing the ambitious Apollo space program.

“The purpose of our lives is to add to the world that was here before we came.”

— John F. Kennedy · Reflecting his philosophy on public service and the legacy individuals should strive to leave.

“Forgive your enemies, but never forget their names.”

— John F. Kennedy · A statement reflecting his pragmatic approach to politics and international diplomacy during his presidency.

“The cost of freedom is always high, but it is a price I have always been willing to pay.”

— John F. Kennedy · Expressing his commitment to defending American values and liberty during various Cold War crises.

“A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces but also by the men it honors and the men it remembers.”

— John F. Kennedy · Reflecting his views on national character and the importance of remembering historical figures and their contributions.