An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy, 1917–1963

biography by Robert Dallek

Blurb

An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy, 1917–1963 is a biography of the 35th president of the United States, John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963. It was written by Bancroft Prize-winning historian Robert Dallek, a professor at Boston University. Robert Dallek researched JFK for five years, using National Security Archives, oral histories, White House tapes, and medical records in his preparations. Dallek contends that historians have underestimated JFK's achievements, especially with foreign policy.
JFK was part of a prominent Boston family. The death of JFK's older brother Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. during World War II eventually paved the way for his political career. His wealthy diplomat father Joseph P. Kennedy was involved in his political career. In the mid-1950s, after defeating Henry Cabot Lodge Jr. and leaving the United States House of Representatives and getting elected as a U.S. Senator, he was one step closer to becoming president.
Dallek recounted Kennedy's medical problems which were controlled by drugs including antispasmodics and antibiotics. He used painkillers for his chronic back pain and other medication to treat his Addison's disease.

First Published

2001

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