As President Eisenhower's term drew to a close, Americans were left questioning their victory in the Cold War. The election of 1960 was a competition between Richard Nixon, who was a republican, and John F. Kennedy, who was a democrat. John F. Kennedy promised to "get American moving again," and Richard Nixon hoped to win by riding on the coattails of Eisenhower's popularity. On September 26, 1960, the first televised debate was held between Nixon and Kennedy. Kennedy was prepared for his television debut, whereas Nixon was not. Another important event during the election period was the arrest of Martin Luther King Jr. in October of 1960. Upon hearing the news, Nixon refused to intervene, and Kennedy persuaded the judge to let him be released on bail. Kennedy won the election because of how well-spoken he was on television, his slogan, and his actions after the arrest of Martin Luther King Jr.
After John F. Kennedy was sworn in as the president of the United States, his popularity began to increase. His inauguration set the tone for a new era of grace, elegance, and wit. The Kennedys did this by inviting many artists and celebrities to the White House and appearing frequently on television. President Kennedy was admired for his speed-reading, which boosted sales for speed-reading courses in America. The American public also greatly admired Jacqueline Kennedy for her eye for fashion and culture. The new first family was all over the news, including coverage of the Kennedy children, Caroline and John.
