LT: JFK Quiz

​JFK's Inaugural Address

Multiple Choice

In his opening lines, Kennedy describes the day as a “celebration of freedom—symbolizing an end as well as a beginning.” What is the purpose of this contrast?

• To argue that freedom is temporary

• To emphasize continuity and renewal in American democracy

• To suggest that the U.S. must abandon old traditions

• To highlight the failures of past generations

Multiple Choice

Kennedy says, “The world is very different now. For man holds in his mortal hands the power to abolish all forms of human poverty and all forms of human life.” Which rhetorical appeal is strongest here?

• Logos, through logical reasoning about technology’s potential

• Pathos, by evoking fear of destruction

• Ethos, by referencing his presidential authority

Multiple Choice

In paragraph 6, Kennedy says, “the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans.” What is his purpose in this statement?

• To suggest younger Americans should enjoy peace

• To shift responsibility for freedom to the new generation

• To criticize older leaders for their failures

• To announce new technological advances

Multiple Choice

Kennedy’s pledge that the U.S. will “pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship” demonstrates what about his view of America’s role?

• It will rely on isolationism to remain strong

• It must accept sacrifices to defend liberty

• It will focus only on domestic security

• It will depend primarily on economic alliances

Multiple Choice

When Kennedy warns that nations who “ride the back of the tiger” end up “inside" the tiger, he is using:

• Metaphor to caution against tyranny

• Biblical allusion

• Scientific evidence about nuclear weapons

• A personal anecdote from wartime

Multiple Choice

In paragraph 10, Kennedy states: “If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich.” What central idea does this support?

• Wealthy societies should isolate themselves from the poor

• Communism offers a better solution to poverty

• Free nations have a moral obligation to reduce poverty

• The U.S. must protect only its domestic economy

Multiple Choice

Which rhetorical appeal is strongest when Kennedy says, “not because the communists may be doing it … but because it is right”?

• Logos, through logic about competition

• Ethos, through moral credibility

• Pathos, by stirring emotions of fear

Multiple Choice

In paragraph 14, Kennedy says, “We dare not tempt them with weakness. For only when our arms are sufficient beyond doubt can we be certain beyond doubt that they will never be employed.” Which idea does this reflect?

• The necessity of military strength to maintain peace

• The inevitability of nuclear war

• A rejection of diplomacy with adversaries

• The need to dismantle all weapons

Multiple Choice

By calling for both sides to “explore the stars, conquer the deserts, eradicate disease, tap the ocean depths,” Kennedy appeals to:

• The superiority of Western nations

• Military dominance in technology

• Shared human achievement and cooperation

• The inevitability of Cold War victory

Multiple Choice

Kennedy quotes the Bible: “undo the heavy burdens … let the oppressed go free.” Why does he include this reference?

• To connect his vision of peace to shared moral and spiritual values

• To prove the government’s power over religion

• To suggest divine punishment for adversaries

• To appeal only to Christian citizens

Multiple Choice

In paragraph 20, Kennedy says the tasks “will not be finished in the first one hundred days, nor … in our lifetime.” What is the effect of this statement?

• It lowers expectations for progress

• It warns of inevitable failure

• It shifts responsibility to future presidents only

• It emphasizes long-term commitment and perseverance

Multiple Choice

Kennedy’s shift from addressing “my fellow Americans” to “my fellow citizens of the world” reflects his belief that:

• America should withdraw from global commitments

• Only Americans can protect liberty effectively

• Freedom is a universal responsibility shared across nations

• The Cold War was mainly a domestic concern

Multiple Choice

When Kennedy declares, “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country,” which rhetorical appeal is most prominent?

• Pathos, inspiring pride and responsibility among citizens

• Logos, presenting a logical argument for civic duty

• Ethos, referencing his presidential authority

Multiple Choice

In his conclusion, Kennedy says, “knowing that here on earth God’s work must truly be our own.” What is his central idea here?

• Divine intervention will solve the Cold War

• Humanity must take responsibility for building peace and justice

• Only religious leaders can bring about freedom

• The U.S. should expand church influence in politics