How JFK Influenced U.S. Foreign Policy

1. How JFK Influenced U.S. Foreign
Policy
By: Benjamin Spacapan

2. How JFK Influenced U.S. Foreign Policy
While serving as a middle market private equity associate with H.I.G. Capital in Miami throughout
the mid-2010s, Benjamin Spacapan gained substantial experience in exercising due diligence in
evaluating investment opportunities. Moreover, Benjamin Spacapan continues to nurture an
interest in foreign policy that came to the fore while studying for his bachelor’s degree in history
with a focus on the Near East at Princeton University.

3. How JFK Influenced U.S. Foreign Policy
When President John F. Kennedy entered the White House in 1961, one of the first things he
ordered was to polish the image of America’s foreign assistance. In response, the U.S. Congress
passed the Foreign Assistance Act (FAA) of 1961.

4. How JFK Influenced U.S. Foreign Policy
Addressing both houses of Congress, JFK said that the U.S. is morally obligated to the
interdependent community of nations, being a good neighbor and wise leader. These duties
encompass economic obligations as a wealthy nation that is not dependent on foreign loans and
has built a strong economy of its own to help the poorer nations. Also, these duties include political
obligations as a major opponent of those who oppress freedom.

5. How JFK Influenced U.S. Foreign Policy
Later, the U.S. Agency for International Development was created to coordinate the assistance
programs of the federal government under the oversight of the U.S. State Department. JFK
became known as a promoter of foreign aid. He envisioned “to pay any price and bear any burden”
just to extend as much aid as possible as an assistance to the free world.

6. How JFK Influenced U.S. Foreign Policy
Today, the FAA remains as the backbone of U.S. foreign assistance. The majority of present-day
foreign policy and programs derive their authority from the FAA.