8 sessions, 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
September 27 through November 15, 2017
Hanover Senior Center - Hanover, NH
Course Fee: $80

I first met Ted Kennedy during the summer of 1962 when we were both running for public office. Although his political career was more successful, I had the good fortune to work with him over the years on various projects, including the cleanup of the Harbor, the central artery, the designation of the Boston Harbor Islands as part of the National Park System, and the construction of the new federal courthouse.

The thrust of this course will be to trace the personal and political history of EMK’s life with emphasis on his career as one of our longest serving Senators; his impact on the Senate as an institution and on the country as a whole. In these days of a highly partisan divide it is particularly instructive to recall his success in reaching across the aisle on so many important issues.

We will recall the incredible personal tragedies including two assassinations; multiple accidents, illnesses and various other personal events, as well as his unique relationship with so many members of his family, both young and old. A significant emphasis will be on his legislative skills, particularly with regard to many of the same issues which we face today. Although he flirted with a run for the Presidency on several occasions, he came closest when he challenged Carter in 1980. Our goal will be to try to paint his place in history with all of the warts and blemishes combined with his considerable achievements. What will be the verdict when his personal failings are weighed against his incredible work ethic ?

We will try to arrange a trip to the Kennedy Institute for the Senate in Boston (next to the JFK Library) as part of this eight week program.