What JFK Saw: November 22, 1963

Looking at news footage of events in Dallas on November 22, 1963, one is struck by the jubilance enveloping President Kennedy before 12:30 p.m., central standard time. Texans thronged the route from the airport, holding homemade signs and waving. Kennedy waded heedlessly into the crowds, in a way that presidents after him never again could. To the watcher today, this rousing welcome comes across as a deeply emotional farewell.

11:40 a.m.: The president arrives at Love Field in Dallas and greets the crowd waiting along a fence.

12 p.m.: Thousands line the streets. People bring babies to see the president.

12:25 p.m.: The crowd in front of a jewelry store as the motorcade nears Dealey Plaza