American University Commencement Address

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American University Commencement Address

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About Historic Speech

Accession Number: TNC:319 (excerpt)

Digital Identifier: TNC-319-EX

Title: Excerpt from the Commencement Address at the American University, 10 June 1963

Date(s) of Materials: 10 June 1963

Description: CBS (Columbia Broadcasting System) motion picture excerpt of President John F. Kennedy's address at the 1963 commencement ceremony for American University held at the John M. Reeves Athletic Center in Washington, D.C. See "Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States, John F. Kennedy, 1963: Item 232." The ceremonies began earlier than expected, so the network cameras missed the first half of the President's prefatory remarks. In his speech the President asks the graduates to re-examine their attitudes towards peace, the Soviet Union, and the Cold War, famously remarking, "If we cannot end now our differences, at least we can make the world safe for diversity." The President also announces that he, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev, and British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan have agreed to hold discussions concerning a comprehensive nuclear test ban treaty. Finally, he explains that the United States will not conduct atmospheric nuclear tests on the condition that other countries uphold this same promise. Produced by: CBS News. This is an excerpt from a "Special Report," from CBS VT60518-63B. Part of 1969 Deed of Gift. Copyright restrictions apply.

Copyright Status: © Columbia Broadcasting System. Non-exclusive licensing rights held by the JFK Library Foundation.

Physical Description: 1 film reel (black-and-white; sound; 16 mm; 27 minutes)

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