John F Kennedy and the 'New Frontier', 1960–1963 Key Terms

New Frontier

A term used by President John F. Kennedy to describe his domestic and foreign policy initiatives aimed at improving American society and its global standing.

Televised Debates

The first presidential debates broadcast on television in 1960, which significantly influenced public perception and voter behavior in the election.

Containment

A U.S. foreign policy strategy aimed at preventing the spread of communism during the Cold War.

Flexible Response

Kennedy's defense strategy that emphasized a range of options, including conventional military forces, to respond to threats.

Segregation

The enforced separation of different racial groups in a country, community, or establishment.

Civil Rights Act

A landmark piece of legislation passed in 1964 that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

Civil Rights Movement

A social movement in the United States aimed at ending racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans, particularly prominent during the 1960s.

Space Race

The competition between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War to achieve significant milestones in space exploration.