A Day That Shook The World: Kennedy inauguration

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Exactly 50 years ago, 20 January 1961, John F. Kennedy was sworn in as President of the United States of America.

The Democrat leader was, and remains, the youngest ever elected American President.

On that snowy day in Capital Hill in Washington, he was watched by huge crowds and millions on television as he was inaugurated as the 35th president.

After taking the oath of office he addressed the electorate, urging them to banish poverty and support others.

"The world is very very different now,” he said. “For man holds in his mortal hands the power to abolish all forms of human poverty and all forms of human life.”

Watch this British Pathe newsreel for original footage