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  1. What is the effect of beginning the speech with references to poverty, hunger, education, space, and the threat of war?

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    Questions: - What is the effect of beginning the speech with references to poverty, hunger, education, space, and the threat of war?
  2. Does it seem surprising that an American presidential candidate should even think it necessary to address such an issue as John F. Kennedy does here? Do you believe, as Kennedy states, that a president’s “views on religion are his own private affair” (par. 8)? Why or why not?

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    Questions: - Does it seem surprising that an American presidential candidate should even think it necessary to address such an issue as John F. Kennedy does here? Do you believe, as Kennedy states, that a president’s “views on religion are his own private affair” (par. 8)? Why or why not?
  3. Kennedy describes several times the kind of America he believes in. Since the time of this speech, has America become that place?

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    Questions: - Kennedy describes several times the kind of America he believes in. Since the time of this speech, has America become that place?
  4. Kennedy states, “For contrary to common newspaper usage, I am not the Catholic candidate for President. I am the Democratic Party’s candidate for President who happens also to be a Catholic” (pars. 17–18). What is the distinction that he makes? Why is it important to make it?

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    Questions: - Kennedy states, “For contrary to common newspaper usage, I am not the Catholic candidate for President. I am the Democratic Party’s candidate for President who happens also to be a Catholic” (pars. 17–18). What is the distinction that he makes? Why is it important to make it?
  5. How would you describe Kennedy’s tone in the speech, especially toward its conclusion?

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    Questions: - How would you describe Kennedy’s tone in the speech, especially toward its conclusion?