Chapter 34-35: Time of Troubles; Tribune of the Underclass Summary and Analysis

As Vietnam heated up, Kennedy's opposition did as well. His public statements pressed for a cessation of bombing and negotiation with Ho Chi Minh, whom he saw as more nationalist than Communist. Traditional Democrats and Republicans rebuked his position, even as the American public became increasingly alarmed at the cost in money and human lives. It was still, however, a poor man's war, as student deferments meant that only the poor actually provided the ground troops for this adventure. When student deferments were eliminated in late 1967, however, the middle class finally moved to Kennedy's side of the fence.

The poor were a continual concern for Kennedy, not just because of their burden in Vietnam but as well for their overall condition within America. To this...