The Death of a President

Title: The Death of a President - November 1963

Author: William Manchester

Pages: 710 Pages

Genre: History

Grade: A

Synopsis: Essentially this book spans from November 20, 1963 to November 25, 2963, with the 2-3 hours surrounding the death of President Kennedy taking up around 300 pages. About 6 months after JFK was assassinated, Jackie Kennedy asked William Manchester to write a definitive account of the assassination. Manchester was given exclusive access to President Johnson, Jackie Kennedy, the secret service and others who were tied to the tragedy.

My Review: This was one of the most fascinating books that I've ever read. The depth of analysis that this book goes into is incredible. It was no surprise to many people that the President was killed in Dallas. People all over the country were warning the presidential party to avoid Dallas. Amazingly, the morning of the assassination the President and his wife were talking in their hotel room in Fort Worth and JFK mentioned that last night would have been a great night for an assassin to strike.

One thing that stood out to me in this book and in other biographies/historical accounts that I've read about US Presidents is the personality traits and qualities that set them apart from regular people. For example, the morning of the assassination Jackie Kennedy pointed out the beautiful artwork and flowers in their hotel room in Fort Worth. JFK had two minutes to spare and suggested that they give the lady that set them up a call. His final phone call was to thank a lady for the beautiful flowers and artwork.

Although JFK was elected in a country that was divided ideologically (much like today), most of the country was shocked and terribly saddened by his assassination. People throughout the world felt the impact of his death and leaders from countries across the globe made it a point to attend the funeral. What was most impressive of all was the poise and control that Jackie Kennedy showed throughout the ordeal, thanking visitors, receiving foreign dignitaries and planning the events. It was even her idea to place an eternal flame at his grave. I hope the country never has to suffer through a similar tragedy.