JFK describes "The Unthinkable" -- "The High Cabal"

[Jan Klimkowski]

In my opinion, there are several "deep" layers interwoven into this speech.

Although I agree that it can be interpreted as nothing more than a Cold Warrior's appeal to the sensibilities of the press, it is much more than merely that, IMO. I even believe that JFK was correct in making such a speech, even if only for that one reason, namely, protecting National Security.

However, that is a minimalistic interpretation and is lacking in historic context. The "entity" that he is describing is not limited by political ideology, by nationality, by allegiance, nor by religious fervor. It is not limited to communists, fascists, capitalists, Christians, Muslims, or Jews.

His description of the "unspeakable" fits the bill perfectly. Whether or not he meant to convey this interpretation of his words is unknown. However, it seems to be a HUGE stretch to imagine that he did not.

Greg - I agree that the JFK passage you excerpted in your original speech could theoretically be describing an "entity" which "is not limited by political ideology, by nationality, by allegiance, nor by religious fervor. It is not limited to communists, fascists, capitalists, Christians, Muslims, or Jews."

However, in my judgement, the "HUGE stretch" is to imagine that JFK is describing this "entity" in his speech to the press.

My position is closer to Charles', in that I accept that JFK appears to have been on a journey leading to a withdrawal from military-industrial-complex war on Vietnam, the banishment of many key OSS/CIA/intel leaders, and the dismantling of the Federal Reserve's power. However, it was a journey, and JFK was travelling the path.