Kennedy in Berlin

by Andreas W. Daum

For the first time, a book tells the story of John F. Kennedy's spectacular visit to Berlin in 1963. It solves the riddle of why Kennedy uttered “Ich bin ein Berliner” and explains why the Germans venerated the American President more than anyone else after Adolf Hitler. Andreas W. Daum digs deep into the history of the Cold War era and traces the changes in German-American relations. He argues that we cannot understand diplomacy and international relations without taking into account emotions, mass approval, and symbolic actions.

406 pages, Hardcover

First published December 10, 2007

Reviews

[Nikita Jayswal · Rating 3 out of 5]

The history behind the famous - Ich bin ein Berliner - explained. Loved the book. Very comprehensive explanation of the 4 days visit of Kennedy to Berlin and the consequence of that to the improving American - GDR relation. The book gives a context to the story by talking about the previsit, the preparations for visit to Berlin (which was originally not in the itinerary) and the post assassination of Kennedy scenario in GDR and its relation with America. Overall a very good read for those interested in the Cold War propaganda and "visibility" politics.