#OTD20 | September 22, 1961
The Peace Corps is Created: Kennedy's Vision for Global Unity
September 22, 1961: President John F. Kennedy's dream materializes when the Peace Corps is created.
Born out of Kennedy's desire to promote world peace and friendship, this new initiative invites American citizens to volunteer overseas and foster cultural understanding.
"And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country."
These words, spoken during Kennedy's inaugural address, set the stage for the creation of a program that would go on to shape international relations and personal experiences for thousands.
Over six decades later, the Peace Corps continues to thrive, bridging cultural gaps and strengthening global ties. The spirit of service and diplomacy it promotes remains a beacon of hope in challenging times.
Viewing Options
The establishment of the Peace Corps and other accomplishments and challenges of the Kennedy administration are explored in our classroom-ready video program, The Sixties, from AMERICA IN THE 20TH CENTURY
Additional Resources
Access more information from Media Rich Learning and curated off-site sources.
#OTD20
Step back in time to experience the significant events that happened on this day in the 20th century.
September 15, 1916: First Use of Tanks in Combat
#OTD20 — September 15, 1916: History is made as military tanks roll into combat for the first time during the Battle of Flers-Courcelette, part of the Somme Offensive.
September 13, 1948: Margaret Chase Smith Elected to Senate
#OTD20 — September 10, 1948: Margaret Chase Smith is elected to the U.S. making her the first woman to serve in both chambers of Congress.
September 12, 1962: JFK Pledges “We Go to the Moon…”
#OTD20 — September 12, 1962: JFK delivers his “We Go to the Moon” address at Rice University, challenging the nation to land a man on the moon within the decade.
September 11, 1973: Coup Topples Government in Chile
#OTD20 — September 11, 1973: a military coup topples the democratically-elected government in Chile.
September 9, 1916. Woodrow Wilson Urges Patience on Women’s Suffrage
#OTD20 — September 9, 1916: President Woodrow Wilson speaks in Atlantic City, urging patience on the issue of women’s suffrage.
September 8, 1945. Korea Partitioned at 38th Parallel
#OTD20 — September 8, 1945: American troops arrive in Korea, initiating the division of the peninsula along the 38th parallel.
September 8, 1945: Huey “The Kingfish” Long Shot
#OTD20 — September 10, 1935: Senator Huey Long, a prominent figure during the Depression-era politics, is shot while at the Louisiana state capital in Baton Rouge.
September 7, 1940. Luftwaffe attacks. London Blitz Begins.
#OTD20 — September 7, 1940: The Blitz of London begins as the German Luftwaffe launches a devastating attack on the city. By day’s end, one thousand Londoners are dead.
Introducing #OTD20: Your Daily Dose of History
Join us as we unveil our #OTD20 Series—a daily exploration of significant events from the past. Perfect for educators, history buffs, and the eternally curious.
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