John F. Kennedy (JFK)

Diplomatic Icebreakers

Peace with Russia, as in Soviet times, has always been unpalatable but necessary.

Deep State Theology

Claims about a dark “deep state” 50 years ago or now distract from addressing an always more challenging reality.

America’s Eagle Bears Two Talons: John F. Kennedy

President Kennedy understood the need to counter America’s enemies without precipitating WWIII.

Presidential Playbook for a Dangerous Phase of Putin’s War - Biden
Presidential Playbook for a Dangerous Phase of Putin’s War

With Vladimir Putin’s planned two-day war to topple Ukraine’s democratically elected government now in its third month and Russian casualties piling into the tens of thousands, concerns abound that Putin might take increasingly drastic steps to alter the disastrous situation he faces on the battlefield. To prevent those grim prospects—or at least contain their effects—President Joe Biden should turn to the playbook his predecessors drafted.

A Cuban Missile Crisis Lesson for the Russia-Ukraine War

John F. Kennedy never flinched, but he showed his mettle during the Cuban Missile Crisis. It was his finest hour. Will this one be ours?

WASP Brahmin & Killing Diem

Lodge was governed by a WASP devotion to American interests and to democratic fair play that drove his role toward displacing the autocratic Diem.

Canceled… But Not for Long: A Review of Paul Matzko’s The Radio Right
Canceled… But Not for Long: A Review of Paul Matzko’s The Radio Right

Paul Matzko’s The Radio Right reveals how pioneering radio fundamentalists set in motion events that would transform both American political and religious life.

Revisiting the Theology of Exploration in Times of Disorder
Revisiting the Theology of Exploration in Times of Disorder

What may come as a surprise to those of us who have learned about the great victory of America winning the space race is that the race was won amid critical bombardment about the money being spent and the rationale behind space exploration.

Christian Influence on US Foreign Policy

Formal religious adherence is declining, but America’s longtime religious self-identity as a lodestar of democratic responsibility in the world continues unabashed.