“I am the man who accompanied Jacqueline Kennedy to Paris, and I have enjoyed it.”
- May 29, 1917 – November 22, 1963
- American
- Politician
- As the 35th President of the United States, he overcame the Cuban Missile Crisis and averted nuclear war, and promoted the Apollo program, laying the foundation for American space exploration.
Quote
“I am the man who accompanied Jacqueline Kennedy to Paris, and I have enjoyed it.”
Explanation
This lighthearted and somewhat humorous quote by John F. Kennedy was made during a press conference in 1961, referring to the famous visit he and his wife, Jacqueline Kennedy, made to Paris. The phrase captures both Kennedy’s charm and the significance of the event. The visit to Paris was highly symbolic, as it took place during a pivotal time in U.S.-France relations and was part of a broader diplomatic effort to strengthen ties between the two countries. Jacqueline Kennedy, who had become a global fashion icon and a symbol of grace, received considerable attention during the trip, and her presence was seen as an extension of American cultural diplomacy.
The playful tone of Kennedy’s statement—”I have enjoyed it”—also reflects his natural ability to engage with the public and deflect from the formalities of politics. It shows his warmth and ease in the public eye, something that was particularly evident during his and his wife’s travels abroad. The visit itself was not just a diplomatic mission; it was a moment for Kennedy to connect with the European public, particularly the French, who were enamored with Jacqueline Kennedy’s elegance and style. The trip also served to reinforce the soft power of the United States, as both John and Jacqueline were seen as symbols of a modern, sophisticated America.
While this quote is more lighthearted than some of Kennedy’s other remarks, it also subtly underscores the role of personal diplomacy in fostering international goodwill. In the modern context, it reminds us of the value of cultural exchange and the importance of personal connections between leaders and the public in shaping international relations. Just as Jacqueline Kennedy’s impact on French society extended beyond politics into fashion and culture, soft diplomacy—through personal charm, mutual respect, and cultural influence—remains a powerful tool in foreign affairs today.
