It’s been fifty years since John F. Kennedy was inaugurated as the nation’s 35th president, yet his specter remains ever present in the American consciousness. In conversation with Bob Herbert, celebrated biographer Robert Dallek examines the trials and tribulations Kennedy faced during his political career—obstacles that are surprisingly resonant to issues facing our current president—including the Cold War, conflict in Southeast Asia, and the resistance he faced in passing domestic policy.

Robert Dallek is the author of An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy, 1917-1963 and the new book John F. Kennedy, and is a Pulitzer Prize finalist. Bob Herbert (moderator) is an op-ed columnist for The New York Times. He is the author of Promises Betrayed: Waking Up from the American Dream.

During the New-York Historical Society’s major renovation project (from April 2010 – November 2011) the Bernard and Irene Schwartz Distinguished Speakers Series will be presented at the New York Society for Ethical Culture at 2 West 64th Street at Central Park West.

Date: May 24 2011 6:30 PM
Full Price Ticket (Non-Members): $20.00
Member Cost: $10.00

Tickets for this program are sold through SmartTix. To order online visit www.smarttix.com. To order by phone please call SmartTix at 212-868-4444. The SmartTix Call Center is open 9am-8pm Monday through Friday, 10am-8pm Saturday and 10am-6pm Sunday. For more information on programs:

Please call the N-YHS Public Programs Department at 212-485-9205. Management reserves the right to refuse admission to latecomers.