“We set sail on this new sea because there is new knowledge to be gained, and new rights to be won, and they must be won and used for the progress of all people. For space science, like nuclear science and technology, has no conscience of its own. Whether it will become a force for good or ill depends on man, and only if the United States occupies a position of preeminence can we help decide whether this new ocean will be a sea of peace or a new terrifying theater of war.”

American politician, 35th president of the United States

John Fitzgerald Kennedy, known as JFK, was an American politician and the 35th president of the United States, serving from 1961 until his assassination in 1963. He was 43 when elected, the youngest elected president, and the first Roman Catholic to hold the office. Before the presidency, Kennedy served Massachusetts in both houses of Congress as a Democrat. He is remembered for his brief presidency and for the public voice that accompanied it, especially on national life, civic duty, and the responsibilities of leadership.