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

by Robert Dallek

Little, Brown, 2003-5-1.
Hardcover, 848 pages.
ISBN: 0316172383

An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy, 1917 - 1963 by Robert Dallek


Noted biographer Robert Dallek investigates the amazing life of President John F. Kennedy in An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy, 1917 - 1963. The book includes revelations about Kennedy's health, love affairs and more.

Dallek used documents from previously unopened archives to share new details in the thoroughly researched book. Dallek found that Kennedy suffered from many health ailments yet he still came across as youthful to the public. Dallek believes Kennedy was able to function fully as President despite his health problems. Kennedy was on many drugs that included sedatives and amphetamines.

Dallek told NPR in an interview, "I think there attaches to him his youthfulness, his hope, his promise and the country won't let that go. And I think it'll last for a long time yet."

Dallek also provides information on Kennedy's infidelity. He had numerous sexual relationships outside his marriage that included an 18 month affair with a young White House intern.

Other topics covered in An Unfinished Life include Vietnam, the October 1962 Cuban missile crisis, Kennedy's domestic policy failures and RFK's appointment as attorney general.

An interesting interview with Dallek about the book and JFK was conducted by Charlie Rose and can be viewed on charlierose.com.

An excerpt for the book is available on bookreporter.com.



An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy, 1917 - 1963 is available for purchase on Amazon.com

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