Unit 9: 1950's and 1960's
Trigger Words:
None
Primary Source 1
Title: Founding Documents of the Peace Corps
Link: http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/peace-corps/
Summary: The Peace Corps were first founded by President Kennedy in 1960 and have had a lasting impact. It was created to help developing countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Many saw it as a good alternative than to being drafted into the army. Kennedy was seen as more of an activist in global affairs and was looking towards new ways to halt the spread of Communism in the poorer countries. His large desire to send Americans abroad to find solutions to problems was seen even before his campaign for president. Largely due to help from Shriver and an executive order, Kennedy was able to establish such an organization. Kennedy's support for the Peace Corps was seen often in his presidency, he was seen welcoming volunteers to the White House at many occasions. Many of the volunteers of this period became known as Kennedy's kids.
Significance: The Peace Corps were one of Kennedy's major organizations in his short time as president. It was only one of the few to stand and have an impact on international affairs, even today. It showed the world that diplomacy can be seen also through peaceful means and not always with the threat of war. The Peace Corps spread American ideals and helped many younger citizens in finding experience and employment. In addition, America was also not seen as intrusive in world affairs because only countries that requested aid had volunteers sent. Its major accomplishment was that it made America seem less invasive in other countries' affairs while still doing much to help improve their conditions.
By: Diana DeGroot
Link: http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/peace-corps/
Summary: The Peace Corps were first founded by President Kennedy in 1960 and have had a lasting impact. It was created to help developing countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Many saw it as a good alternative than to being drafted into the army. Kennedy was seen as more of an activist in global affairs and was looking towards new ways to halt the spread of Communism in the poorer countries. His large desire to send Americans abroad to find solutions to problems was seen even before his campaign for president. Largely due to help from Shriver and an executive order, Kennedy was able to establish such an organization. Kennedy's support for the Peace Corps was seen often in his presidency, he was seen welcoming volunteers to the White House at many occasions. Many of the volunteers of this period became known as Kennedy's kids.
Significance: The Peace Corps were one of Kennedy's major organizations in his short time as president. It was only one of the few to stand and have an impact on international affairs, even today. It showed the world that diplomacy can be seen also through peaceful means and not always with the threat of war. The Peace Corps spread American ideals and helped many younger citizens in finding experience and employment. In addition, America was also not seen as intrusive in world affairs because only countries that requested aid had volunteers sent. Its major accomplishment was that it made America seem less invasive in other countries' affairs while still doing much to help improve their conditions.
By: Diana DeGroot