Harriman Beepat

Prof. B Murdaco

POL 166
December 17^th 2013

Assignment: Due 12/17: Choose a passage from JFK, Reagan, or Obama, write it out and explain what it means.

“Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.”

This is the, if not one of the most memorable phrases from the former president. In his inaugural speech to the nation, President Kennedy spoke of many things, and one of the main themes was one of Patriotism. He called upon the American people to work together to bring about prosperity and peace amongst other ideals, so that meaningful change can be made. In a simpler form, he stressed that we should all contribute towards making this country, the greatest nation on earth. To put aside our dependence on the government for all our needs, and instead work towards making our country a better place. In other words, don't expect everything to be handed to you; you have to work for it. (I guess modern day welfare recipients, the ones who think they are entitled to get everything free from the government, would find this phrase difficult to swallow).