Curious about the political dynamics of the 1960s and the personalities who shaped it? Want to explore the life of Dick Goodwin, a key figure in the Kennedy and Johnson administrations? How did his relationships with Bobby Kennedy, Eugene McCarthy and Lyndon Johnson influence his career and the political landscape of the time? Ready to explore the profound and personal impact of world events through the lens of a man deeply entwined with history and public service? Let's begin!


An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the 1960s

Dick Goodwin, a man deeply entwined with history and public service, had a unique journey. His best friend from college, George Cuomo, once asked him what he was like as a young man. Dick, ever nonchalant, would shrug and say he was too busy being himself to know. 

As a historian, Doris Goodwin, the author, often daydreamed about meeting historical figures in their youth, like Theodore Roosevelt with his eccentric energy or Franklin Roosevelt before polio. Doris felt a deep connection with these figures, often joking they were "my guys." However, diving into her husband Dick's past through his own youthful writings felt different, more personal.

Doris stumbled upon a typed page from Dick's journal at age twenty. His writing was earnest, filled with humor and self-mockery. Though his diary was short-lived, Doris found nearly fifty letters he had written to George, which painted a vivid picture of Dick's early life. 

In June 1953, Dick expressed his uncertainty post-graduation, deciding to attend Harvard Law due to financial incentives. He juggled two jobs that summer and threw himself into a local political fight for rent control, driven by his love for the fray. His speech at a town meeting made headlines and even boosted his social life.

Dick's letters from Harvard Law School depicted a pressurized environment, yet he found the study of law increasingly fascinating. His hard work paid off with a straight-A average, opening doors to prestigious law firms. But in a surprising turn, feeling claustrophobic, he enlisted in the army, seeking escape and adventure.

In the army, Dick was assigned as a platoon medic despite having no medical background. He found solace in the base library, devouring books on various subjects. His posting in France allowed him to explore Europe, gaining immense personal growth. He was even given a role in educational programs, earning commendations and opportunities to travel.

Upon returning to Harvard, Dick became deeply involved in civil rights issues and was appointed committee counsel for a legislative investigation into discriminatory practices on college campuses. His passion for justice was evident in his letters to George, where he detailed the fight against the discriminatory actions of a national sorority.

During his time at Harvard, Dick was elected president of the Law Review, a prestigious position that opened numerous career paths. He chose to clerk for Justice Felix Frankfurter, who became a significant mentor. Frankfurter's institutional conservatism and emphasis on the rule of law left a lasting impact on Dick.

After his clerkship, Dick joined the House Subcommittee on Legislative Oversight, where he initiated the federal investigation into the quiz show scandal. The investigation revealed that contestants had been coached and provided with answers, leading to a national outcry. Dick's role in the investigation was significant, though he felt he never fully exposed the real culprits behind the fraud.

In a surprising turn of events, Dick was asked by Theodore Sorensen, an aide to Senator John F. Kennedy, to try his hand at speechwriting. This opportunity would forever change his life, drawing him into the heart of political action.

As the Sixties dawned, Dick's path intertwined with the lives and epoch of his contemporaries, driven by an immense tailwind of social and cultural change, forever shaping his journey and impact on history.

How Did Dick Goodwin's Unlikely Path Lead Him to the Heart of Kennedy's Camelot?

Let's dive into the complex relationship between Kennedy and his supporters, contrasting it with the experiences of Dick and his wife, who had deep connections to Kennedy and Johnson.

Their biases clashed, as Dick admired Kennedy's youthful leadership, while his wife remained loyal to Johnson. This tension mirrored the historic rift between the Kennedy and Johnson camps, especially after Kennedy's assassination and Robert Kennedy's 1968 challenge to Johnson.

Their journey into the tumultuous Sixties began with archival boxes filled with Kennedy's campaign materials. They aimed to set aside their biases and rediscover the era through fresh eyes.

In 1956, Doris, the author, first encountered Kennedy on a black-and-white TV, witnessing the senator's near-win for the vice-presidential nomination. Kennedy's graceful concession speech left a lasting impression.

By 1958, Dick had his first in-person meeting with Kennedy, but it wasn't until January 1959, in the Old Senate Office Building, that Kennedy's ambition truly resonated with him. Dick's journey as a speechwriter began in earnest, working tirelessly on position papers and speeches.

The campaign trail continued, with Kennedy's tireless efforts in Wisconsin paying off in the 1960 primary. His victory over Humphrey, though not decisive, set the stage for a grueling campaign ahead. Dick's work on stump speeches and promises left a lasting impact, particularly in Ashland, where Kennedy's pledges eventually sparked a community revival.

Kennedy's tireless campaigning, culminating in his famous Peace Corps proposal at the University of Michigan, showcased his ability to inspire and mobilize young people. The Peace Corps, born from this moment, became a lasting legacy.

As the election approached, Dick's intense work on speeches and policy positions continued. The debates, especially the first one, were pivotal. Kennedy's composed demeanor contrasted with Nixon's unease, solidifying Kennedy's image as a strong leader.

Despite a near-fatal misstep with an anti-Castro statement, Kennedy's campaign persevered. On November 8, 1960, he won the presidency by a razor-thin margin, thanks to his hard work and a dedicated team.

A Bouquet for JFK: Unraveling the Kennedy Campaign's Legacy

On January 20, 1961, the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy marked the beginning of a new era. In a memorable speech, JFK called on Americans to ask not what their country could do for them, but what they could do for their country. This iconic line, which crystallized the spirit of the Sixties, had its roots in an earlier speech Kennedy had delivered in Anchorage, Alaska, with the help of his close aide Dick Goodwin.

Jackie Kennedy kept memorabilia from that time, including Dick’s talking points, which she later returned to him with a heartfelt note. This underscored the deep friendship and collaboration between the Kennedys and Goodwin.

During Kennedy’s inauguration, amid a bone-chilling cold, Dick Goodwin stood hatless and scarf-less, reflecting the New Frontier heroics of the new president. Kennedy’s speech, delivered with dramatic fervor, focused on the Cold War and foreign affairs, leaving out domestic issues like civil rights, which would later define the decade.

After the festivities, Kennedy noticed the all-white Coast Guard detachment and instructed Goodwin to address this racial oversight, marking Goodwin’s first assignment in the administration. This led to the eventual appointment of Merle Smith Jr., the first Black cadet to graduate from the Coast Guard Academy, who later had a distinguished career.

Goodwin’s role in the Kennedy administration soon expanded to foreign policy, particularly Latin America. He played a pivotal part in creating the Alliance for Progress, a $20 billion initiative aimed at promoting democracy and social justice in Latin America. Despite his youth and inexperience, Goodwin’s passion and direct access to Kennedy allowed him to influence policy significantly.

However, the Bay of Pigs invasion in April 1961 was a stark failure. Kennedy, who initially blamed himself for the debacle, quickly regained his composure and focused on the Alliance for Progress. Goodwin’s efforts culminated in a historic conference in Uruguay, where the Charter of Punta del Este was signed, despite initial resistance from several delegations.

A surprising encounter with Che Guevara in Montevideo, however, led to Goodwin’s eventual removal from the White House. This impromptu meeting, which was meant to be a casual exchange, was misinterpreted as formal negotiations, leading to political backlash. Despite his significant contributions, Goodwin was transferred to the State Department, a move he perceived as a demotion.

Years later, Goodwin’s encounter with Guevara was recast as a missed opportunity for dialogue. At a conference in Havana, he recounted the meeting with humor and candor, captivating the audience, including Fidel Castro. The event underscored the complex and often bittersweet legacy of the Kennedy administration’s foreign policy initiatives.

Did JFK's Inaugural Address and Dick Goodwin's Role Shape the Sixties' Spirit and Foreign Policy?

Despite being in his eighties, Dick Goodwin lamented that he was living both his thirties and eighties simultaneously, saying he was "burning his life candle at both ends." Dick’s health was declining, but he found pleasure in reflecting on his escape from the State Department to the Peace Corps in 1962. He had simply walked over to Peace Corps headquarters and offered his services, where he was welcomed by Sarge Shriver.

Kennedy learned of Dick's move and allowed him to continue working on speeches related to the Alliance for Progress. Dick was retained on the State Department payroll while working mostly for the Peace Corps. Bill Josephson, an old friend, recalled Secretary of State Dean Rusk’s anger at Dick’s liberal influence and how Sarge Shriver welcomed Dick's transfer with excitement.

At the Peace Corps, Dick envisioned an International Peace Corps, encouraging other countries to establish their own organizations. He proposed a grand title for himself and worked tirelessly to promote the idea. Within months, several countries had started the process of setting up their own Peace Corps.

Dick’s versatility extended beyond the Peace Corps. He played a significant role in organizing the White House dinner for Nobel Laureates in 1962, where Kennedy famously remarked, "This is the most extraordinary collection of talent, of human knowledge, that has ever been gathered together at the White House, with the possible exception of when Thomas Jefferson dined alone."

The dinner was a grand affair, attended by prominent figures such as Robert Frost, Pearl Buck, and John Glenn. During the event, Dick and Jackie Kennedy became lifelong friends. They collaborated on various projects, including the preservation of the Abu Simbel monuments in Egypt, which were threatened by the construction of the Aswan Dam. Dick and Jackie successfully lobbied for American involvement in the preservation efforts.

Dick’s work with Jackie continued, including efforts to make the White House a cultural showcase. He also grappled with Kennedy’s retreat on civil rights. The promise to end discrimination in federal housing took nearly two years to fulfill, reflecting political caution and pressure from various quarters.

The Birmingham Children’s Crusade in 1963, where police attacked Black children with fire hoses and dogs, shocked the nation and spurred civil rights activism. Kennedy’s televised speech on June 11, 1963, marked a turning point, signaling his commitment to civil rights. This was a prologue to the comprehensive Civil Rights Bill he would later introduce.

The March on Washington in August 1963, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech, further galvanized the movement. Dick and the Kennedy team were deeply involved in the civil rights struggle, recognizing its crucial importance.

Following Kennedy’s assassination in November 1963, Dick was among those who helped organize the funeral and later became part of the team working on the John F. Kennedy Library. He navigated the transition to Lyndon Johnson’s administration, despite initial reluctance and loyalty to the Kennedys.

Johnson’s War on Poverty and the launch of the Great Society marked a new era. Dick played a key role in shaping these initiatives, drafting speeches and working tirelessly to promote Johnson’s vision. The Great Society aimed to address urban decay, education, and environmental preservation, striving for a society where the quality of life was prioritized over material wealth.

Dick’s journey from the Peace Corps to the White House, his collaboration with Jackie Kennedy, and his contributions to civil rights and the Great Society exemplify his role as the "Supreme Generalist," a versatile and dedicated public servant committed to making a lasting impact on society.

Dick Goodwin: The Unsung Hero Behind Kennedy's Legacy and Johnson's Great Society

Bill Moyers once described Lyndon Johnson as "thirteen of the most complex people" he had ever known, highlighting his unpredictable nature. This complexity was evident in the experiences of Dick, who worked closely with Johnson in the White House. From moments of warmth and gratitude to abrupt coldness and fury, Johnson's behavior often left his staff uncertain but deeply impacted by his relentless pursuit of a better America.

One memorable instance occurred after Johnson's Great Society speech. Dick found himself invited to spend Memorial Day weekend at Johnson's Texas ranch, despite the whirlwind schedule that included memorial services for JFK and multiple fundraising events. The weekend was a mix of hospitality and work, as Dick drafted speeches for Johnson's various engagements.

At the ranch, the unpretentious atmosphere and Johnson's dynamic personality left a lasting impression on Dick and his wife, Sandra. They were included in all activities, experiencing both Johnson's charm and his sudden outbursts, such as his anger over the press taking seats meant for locals at a high school graduation.

Johnson's multifaceted nature extended to his political strategies. During the historic filibuster to pass the Civil Rights Bill, Johnson displayed patience, methodical persuasion, and a willingness to share credit. His masterful handling of the situation ensured the bill's passage, marking a significant achievement in his presidency.

However, Johnson's darker side emerged when he felt threatened by media attention on his staff. He vehemently denied Dick's contributions to his speeches in an interview with journalist Hugh Sidey, showcasing his ability to lie convincingly and his tendency to belittle those around him.

Yet, Johnson's empathy and compassion were also evident in his interactions with retired Supreme Court Justice Felix Frankfurter, whom he visited and sought advice from, demonstrating a deep respect for the elderly.

Johnson's complex relationship with Robert Kennedy further illustrated his contradictory behavior. Despite their mutual animosity, political pragmatism led Johnson to support Robert's Senate campaign, even as he worked behind the scenes to ensure he wouldn't be his running mate.

Campaigning for reelection, Johnson's energy and connection with the public were on full display. His speeches resonated with Americans, and his campaign strategies, including the infamous "Daisy Girl" ad, effectively portrayed Goldwater as a dangerous choice.

Ultimately, Johnson's landslide victory in the 1964 election validated his efforts and dreams of building the Great Society. Despite his multifaceted and often contradictory nature, Johnson's dedication to his vision and his ability to navigate the complexities of politics left an indelible mark on America.

Was Lyndon Johnson the Most Complex President in American History?

In March 1965, amid the exhilarating political landscape, Lyndon B. Johnson delivered his iconic "We Shall Overcome" speech. This speech, crafted by Dick Goodwin, marked a pivotal moment in the fight for civil rights. 

Goodwin's journey with Johnson was a thrilling mix of laughter, bewilderment, and profound reflection, often revolving around Johnson’s secret taped conversations. One such conversation on November 4, 1964, highlighted Goodwin's indispensable role in the administration despite his reputation as a "loner" and "overly ambitious." Johnson, however, saw beyond these labels, recognizing Goodwin's unique talents and contributions, particularly in speechwriting.

As LBJ embarked on his ambitious Great Society program aimed at addressing America's major social issues, Goodwin's role became even more critical. He was instrumental in drafting messages to Congress, contributing to landmark legislation in health care, education, and urban development. Johnson’s administration, driven by an innovative task force system, managed to break through legislative barriers that had previously stymied efforts, especially in education and health care.

The partnership between Johnson and Martin Luther King Jr. during this period was also crucial. Their conversations revealed a mutual understanding and strategic collaboration aimed at advancing civil rights. King’s efforts in organizing voter registration drives in Alabama, particularly in Selma, culminated in the historic march that faced brutal opposition, now known as "Bloody Sunday." This event galvanized public sentiment and led to Johnson’s powerful address to Congress, where he declared, "And we shall overcome," aligning himself with the Civil Rights Movement's anthem.

Goodwin’s speechwriting prowess was evident in other significant addresses, including the one at Howard University, where Johnson articulated the concept of affirmative action, emphasizing that true freedom required more than just legal rights but also economic and educational opportunities.

Throughout these years, Goodwin faced his own struggles within the administration. His desire to leave and focus on writing was met with resistance from Johnson, who valued Goodwin's contributions immensely. Despite the president’s attempts to retain him, Goodwin eventually resigned in 1965, though not without leaving a lasting impact on the administration and the country’s legislative landscape.

The era was marked by profound legislative achievements and personal sacrifices, encapsulating the triumphs and tribulations of a transformative period in American history.

LBJ's 'We Shall Overcome' Speech: A Dual Legacy of Lyndon B. Johnson and Dick Goodwin

In 2016, Dick, in his mid-eighties and battling health issues, was determined to sort through his vast collection of historical documents. His wife, Doris, supported him through his health struggles, often managing his medical needs while he remained upbeat and focused on his work. Their partnership mirrored the deep connections Dick had with significant figures like Jackie and Bobby Kennedy.

Dick's relationship with the Kennedys, especially Bobby, evolved significantly after he left the White House in 1965. His friendship with Jackie started earlier, as they worked closely on White House projects. Dick described Jackie as hardworking and passionate, a stark contrast to her public image. His bond with Bobby deepened during a trip to South America in 1965, where they witnessed the impact of the Kennedy legacy firsthand. This trip profoundly influenced Dick, solidifying his friendship with Bobby and shaping his future actions.

In 1966, Dick helped craft Bobby Kennedy's "Ripple of Hope" speech delivered in South Africa. This speech, which inspired countless individuals, including Margaret Marshall, highlighted the power of individual actions in creating change. Dick's words had a lasting impact, resonating with the audience and reinforcing the idea that small acts of courage can collectively transform the world.

As the Vietnam War escalated, Dick became a vocal critic, leading to a public break with President Johnson. Despite their past collaboration on the Great Society, Dick felt compelled to speak out against the war, driven by a sense of duty to the country's best interests. His public dissent strained his relationship with the administration but highlighted the importance of loyalty to one's principles over political alliances.

In 1967, Dick's criticism of the war intensified, reflecting the growing national discontent. Meanwhile, Doris, a young academic, navigated her own challenges after being selected as a White House Fellow. Despite an article she co-authored criticizing Johnson, the president decided to retain her, showcasing his complex character and willingness to engage with differing viewpoints.

Throughout these years, Dick's friendships with Jackie and Bobby Kennedy remained strong, providing mutual support and companionship. His loyalty to the Kennedys and his dedication to social justice continued to shape his actions, leaving a lasting legacy of courage and integrity.

How Did Dick's Friendship with the Kennedys Shape His Legacy of Courage and Integrity?

In October 1968, as Doris Kearns whispered to President Johnson during a White House Fellows event, Dick Goodwin faced the daunting task of revisiting the tumultuous events of 1967-68. With a sense of foreboding, Goodwin turned to Herman Melville’s “Benito Cereno,” capturing the stormy prelude to 1968’s “hellish year.” His strongest memory from 1967 was the contentious debate over whether Bobby Kennedy should run against Lyndon Johnson.

Goodwin was a fervent advocate for Kennedy’s candidacy, seeing it as a chance to unite disparate factions and defeat Johnson. Despite his conviction, Kennedy hesitated, torn between public opposition to the war and loyalty to the Democratic Party. His indecision stretched into 1968, a year marked by escalating tensions and widespread protests against the Vietnam War.

Amidst the chaos, Goodwin’s hope for Kennedy’s candidacy waned. McCarthy entered the race, supported by anti-war students and activists. Goodwin, feeling the urgency of the moment, joined McCarthy’s campaign, bringing his political acumen and experience to the fore. He energized the campaign, transforming it into a genuine movement powered by youthful idealism and determination.

The New Hampshire primary was a turning point. McCarthy’s strong showing forced Johnson to reconsider his position. On March 31, Johnson announced he would not seek re-election, a decision that stunned the nation and filled McCarthy’s supporters with hope. However, the joy was short-lived. On April 4, Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, plunging the country into grief and turmoil.

Robert Kennedy’s campaign gained momentum, with victories in Indiana and Nebraska. Yet, the campaign’s triumph was shattered on June 5, 1968, when Kennedy was assassinated after winning the California primary. Goodwin, devastated by the loss of his friend, reflected on the stolen future and the brutal fate that had shaped the year.

The narrative of 1968, filled with political fervor, tragedy, and unfulfilled potential, underscored the volatile nature of the era. Through Goodwin’s experiences, the story of a year that could have been a turning point in American history was poignantly captured.

1968: The Year Fate Tested Kennedy, Johnson, and a Nation's Resolve

It was a somber time, reflecting on the chaotic events of the 1968 Democratic convention in Chicago. Dick Goodwin, deeply affected by the deaths of Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy, passionately rejoined McCarthy's campaign, eager to bring an end to the Vietnam War. The peace talks were stalling, and the convention itself was marred by violence, symbolized by a splintered police club Dick had kept as a grim memento.

The tension in Chicago was palpable with thousands of antiwar protesters clashing with police, turning the streets into battlegrounds. Amidst this turmoil, Dick led efforts to draft a strong peace platform, but internal party politics and Johnson's influence thwarted their attempts. McCarthy's supporters, including Dick, faced brutal police retaliation, yet they remained committed to their cause, culminating in a poignant candlelight procession to Grant Park.

Meanwhile, Lyndon Johnson, grappling with his legacy as his presidency ended, sought solace in his memoirs and the creation of his presidential library. Despite his complex nature—both ruthless and warm—he found a trusted confidante in Doris Kearns, who balanced her Harvard career with helping him document his life. Their conversations, rich with history and emotion, became the foundation for her future as a presidential historian.

Johnson's final years were marked by declining health but an unwavering desire to be remembered for his civil rights achievements. His last public speech at a civil rights symposium in December 1972 was a heartfelt reflection on his commitment to equality. Just six weeks later, Lyndon Johnson passed away at his beloved ranch, leaving behind a legacy of profound yet incomplete change.

How Did the 1968 Democratic Convention Shape the Legacies of Bobby Kennedy, and Lyndon Johnson?

In January 2017, Dick and Doris celebrated their journey through Dick's 1960s memorabilia with champagne, reflecting on the influential figures and events of that era. Despite the completion of this chapter, many boxes documenting Dick’s post-public life remained. After Robert Kennedy’s assassination, Dick retreated to Maine, driven by a desire for change through public sentiment rather than waiting for heroic figures.

They reminisced about the Sixties icons, their friendships, and the impact of historical moments. Dick’s friendship with Jackie Kennedy, Lady Bird Johnson’s resilience, and the intertwined legacies of JFK and LBJ were particularly poignant. The exploration of civil rights and the contrasting styles of Kennedy and Johnson revealed their combined influence on history.

As they explored Dick’s later work, signs of his declining health became evident. Despite medical challenges, Dick’s spirit remained unyielding. His daily routines, love for cigars, and cherished moments with friends continued until nosebleeds and a cancer diagnosis in May 2017 altered their course. Dick’s surgery and recovery were marked by courage and a supportive community.

Summer brought a brief respite in Cape Cod, but by fall, radiation treatments began, and Dick’s health further declined. Yet, his determination and the love of friends and family provided solace. Thanksgiving and the winter months were bittersweet, filled with cherished traditions and the painful reality of Dick’s illness.

By spring 2018, as Dick’s condition worsened, their work on the book project provided comfort and purpose. Dick’s final days were surrounded by friends and family, transforming the atmosphere into one of affection and shared memories. His passing left a profound void for Doris, who sought solace in work and eventually moved to Boston, where she found a new beginning and a commitment to finish their book.

The journey through Dick’s boxes became a talisman, embodying their shared history and the unresolved issues of the Sixties. Doris embraced the project, finding strength in the past and hope for the future, ready to tell the stories that shaped their lives and the nation.

Reflecting on the Sixties: Dick and Doris's Journey Through History and Heartache

Dick Goodwin's career was characterized by versatility, commitment to public service, and a deep passion for social justice. His early days post-graduation were filled with uncertainty but led him to Harvard Law and eventually into the political arena, where he made significant contributions, including his role in the federal investigation of the quiz show scandal and his work as a speechwriter for Kennedy.

In the Kennedy administration, Goodwin was instrumental in initiatives like the Alliance for Progress and the Peace Corps, demonstrating his ability to influence policy despite his youth. His role expanded to civil rights, foreign policy, and the cultural enhancement of the White House, showcasing his broad impact.

Goodwin's relationship with Johnson was complex, marked by both collaboration and friction. He played a crucial role in drafting speeches and shaping legislative efforts for the Great Society, despite Johnson's unpredictable nature. The civil rights movement, especially the events of 1963 and the subsequent legislative achievements, highlighted Goodwin's dedication to justice.

The turbulent Sixties, including the assassinations of JFK, Martin Luther King Jr., and Bobby Kennedy, deeply affected Goodwin, leading to public dissent against the Vietnam War and a shift towards supporting other political figures like Eugene McCarthy. His later years were marked by continued advocacy for social change and a reflection on his contributions to pivotal moments in history.

Goodwin's final years, spent sorting through his personal documents and reflecting on his legacy, underscored his lifelong commitment to public service and social justice. His work, alongside his wife Doris, in documenting these historical moments has left an enduring impact, highlighting the importance of understanding and preserving the past to inform the future.

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Curious about the political dynamics of the 1960s and the personalities who shaped it?

Want to explore the life of Dick Goodwin, a key figure in the Kennedy and Johnson administrations?

How did his relationships with Bobby Kennedy, Eugene McCarthy and Lyndon Johnson influence his career and the political landscape of the time?

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