Question

[A]sk not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country. Explain why the quotation above is viewed as one of the most significant lines of John F. Kennedy’s speech. (Hint: Think about the political, civil, and economic conditions of Kennedy’s presidency.)

Answer 1

This quote was aimed to make people think more about their political and civil positions. Everyone want's to live in a rich and strong country that will satisfy people's needs, provide people with good jobs and nice goods. But, at first we have to undestand that demanding is not the way the strong country is built. A country is what we do for it to be which means we have to contribute in order to consume. Kennedy's words helped Americans realize their importance, that also built patriotism and willnes to develop Americe in many areas.

Answer 2

Kennedy’s speech encouraged Americans to participate in the goals of the nation. This speech really spoke to the audience of the day, who faced looming threats and concerns about communism, nuclear war, economic hardships, and civil unrest. The times were turbulent and Kennedy sought to unite Americans in such a way that everyone would want the same goals: freedom and liberty. As a young president, Kennedy used his age to his advantage, declaring the dawn of an era with youth leading the way to change and improvement. By phrasing this line in this way, Kennedy is able to arouse emotion in his audience rather than sounding like he is lecturing them.