The Unexpected Fame of JFK in 1955: Insights from Back to the Future

In the iconic 1985 film Back to the Future, the line “Who the hell is John F. Kennedy” uttered by teenage Lorraine's father, George McFly, provides a delightful comedic moment. However, what truly makes this scene resonate with real-world history is the film's accurate portrayal of John F. Kennedy’s level of public recognition in 1955. Delving deeper into this reveal offers a fascinating glimpse into the transitions of public perception and the impact of technology on public awareness.

Contextualizing JFK’s Recognition in 1955

John F. Kennedy had indeed emerged as a prominent figure during World War II for his service as a Navy officer, specifically for his leadership during the PT-109 incident. However, it's crucial to understand the timeline and context of his popularity. While the PT-109 incident was publicized following the war, it did not catapult Kennedy to the household name status that he would later achieve.

The PT-109 tale, involving the sinking of his small patrol torpedo boat by a Japanese destroyer and the subsequent heroic rescue attempt by Kennedy, garnered considerable attention in the years after the war. Yet, it was not until the mid-1950s that Kennedy’s prominence began to ascend.

His book, Profiles in Courage, published in 1956, significantly contributed to his growing fame. By the time Back to the Future is set, in 1955, Kennedy was still relatively unknown nationwide, especially outside of Massachusetts. This aligns precisely with George McFly’s confusion in the film, showcasing the accurate portrayal of the time period’s historical context.

The Role of Technology in Public Recognition

The film's portrayal of Kennedy’s status in 1955 is particularly relevant because it highlights the limitations of pre-internet, pre-cable TV technology. In the early 1950s, television ownership was far from widespread, and news coverage was not as comprehensive.

During World War II, Kennedy became known to many through accounts and photographs, but these lacked the immediate and pervasive saturation of information that television and other modern media would later provide. The book Profiles in Courage, published in 1956, and his subsequent activities gradually elevated his profile, culminating in his 1960 presidential campaign and presidency.

It is worth noting that in the episode where Marty McFly travels back to 1955, he stumbles upon a pub quiz or a social gathering in the future where he inadvertently mentions the 1960 presidential debate between Kennedy and Richard Nixon. This moment is a clear indicator of how quickly the fame of Kennedy spread once given the right media platform.

Conclusion: The Paradox of Public Fame

The line from Back to the Future serves as a poignant reminder of how public fame and recognition can evolve rapidly with technological advancements. In 1955, Kennedy was not the household name we know him as today. However, his efforts in writing Profiles in Courage and his presidential campaign in 1960 marked significant milestones in his rise to prominence.

It is fascinating to see how a historical film can provide such an accurate depiction of a key moment in U.S. political history, underscoring the role of media and technology in shaping public perception. The film not only entertains but also offers insights into the progression of political figures from local prominence to national recognition.