What did John F. Kennedy do to influence the events and ideas of the time?

Answer 1

Inspired a generation of activism - "Ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country" - started the Peace Corps which still operates today. You could argue that that activism led to the student rebellions during the late 60's???

Started the Space Race and declared a man would walk on the moon by the end of the decade - they did.

He was the first to start talking of a reduction of nuclear testing - the Partial Test Ban Treaty of 1963, which limited testing to underground only. (though he did start another arms race with his declarations of the 'missile gap' which didnt exist)

He was the first president to strongly advocate a comprehensive Civil Rights billl (though did it too late!) and his administration launched more civil law suits against civil rights violators than any other administration previously.

His rhethoric, his speeches inspired people which I think is his biggest legacy. He told people to help themselves and to participate.

Answer 2

He jump started the American space race to the moon. And, he helped avert a nuclear war with Cuba and the USSR. Not much else other than that.