Historical story

What happened on July 12 1999?

On July 12, 1999, United States Senator Ted Kennedy spoke at the funeral mass of his cousin, John F. Kennedy Jr., in Boston. Kennedy's speech was both personal and political, as he eulogized his cousin's life and urged Americans to continue his commitment to public service.

In the speech, Kennedy famously used the phrase "The Dream Lives On," which has since become a popular expression for the Kennedy legacy. Kennedy's speech is widely considered one of the most moving moments of the John F. Kennedy Jr. funeral.

Here are some key excerpts from Kennedy's speech:

* "We dare not forget the dream that propelled my brother and John on that cold and snowy Boston morning 36 years ago: the dream of a nation strong and compassionate and just, where the mighty would no longer prey upon the weak, where the powerful would no longer be unmindful of the oppressed. That was his vision, and that was his dream. The Dream Lives On."

* "John believed that life was a gift that should never be squandered, and so he never wasted a day. He believed in the power of laughter and the power of love, and so he shared those gifts with the rest of us."

* "John Kennedy Jr. lived a life of purpose, and he challenged us all to do the same. He reminded us that we have a responsibility not only to our own families, but to our communities and our country. He taught us that we should not be afraid to stand up for what we believe in, and that we should never underestimate the power of one person to make a difference."

* "Let us remember him not only for the accomplishments of his life, but also for his goodness of heart, for his courage, for his character, and above all, for the beauty that is his life. The Dream Lives On."

In the aftermath of John F. Kennedy Jr.'s death, Kennedy's speech contributed to the outpouring of grief and admiration that followed. It also served as a reminder of the Kennedy family's enduring commitment to public service and the impact of their legacy on American politics and culture.