The Rest Is History - Episode 510: America in '68: The Killing of Robert Kennedy (Part 3)
Release Date: November 4, 2024
Hosts: Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook

Introduction

In this compelling third part of their series on the assassination of Robert Kennedy, Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook delve deep into the tumultuous events of 1968, exploring the intricate web of politics, personal struggles, and societal upheavals that culminated in one of America's most tragic moments. This episode provides a nuanced examination of RFK's political ambitions, his contentious relationships, and the ultimate consequences of his relentless pursuit of change.

Robert Kennedy: From Brother to Political Titan

Robert F. Kennedy, often viewed as the steadfast brother of President John F. Kennedy, emerges as a complex and multifaceted figure. Born in 1925 as the seventh Kennedy child, Robert initially followed in his family's political footsteps with humility, serving under the notorious Senator Joe McCarthy for six months—a decision that haunted him throughout his life.

Tom Holland [06:04]: "Robert Kennedy is the one that's perhaps the most Technicolor and fascinating."

Kennedy's tenure as Attorney General under JFK showcased his unwavering commitment to civil rights and his fierce stance against organized crime, notably clashing with figures like Jimmy Hoffa. Despite being perceived as shy and brooding, Robert's loyalty to his brother was undeniable, serving as JFK's right-hand man during critical moments like the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Personal Struggles and Transformation

The assassination of JFK in November 1963 was a turning point for Robert Kennedy. Stricken with grief, he exhibited signs of a nervous breakdown—wearing mourning attire long after the nation had moved past its sorrows. However, his resilience shone through when he undertook the grueling climb of Mount Kennedy (named after his brother) in Canada, symbolizing his quest for closure and strength.

Dominic Sandbrook [10:18]: "He did it with a team of mountaineers who were incredibly impressed by him..."

Jackie Kennedy played a pivotal role in Robert's intellectual and emotional transformation by introducing him to Greek tragedies and existentialist literature, fostering a deeper philosophical side that contrasted sharply with his political persona.

The 1968 Democratic Primaries: A Battle of Ideals

As the 1968 election cycle intensified, Robert Kennedy sought to carve his path separate from his brother's legacy. His venture into the Senate race in New York positioned him as a champion for the underprivileged, advocating for policies to alleviate poverty and end the Vietnam War. However, his entry into the race ignited fierce rivalry with figures like Eugene McCarthy and Hubert Humphrey.

Tom Holland [15:37]: "Aeschylus is classic."

Kennedy's charismatic approach, marked by large rallies and heartfelt speeches, endeared him to marginalized communities but alienated more conservative and middle-class voters. His relationship with Lyndon Johnson further complicated his political landscape, as mutual disdain created additional barriers within the Democratic Party.

Key Primaries: Indiana, Oregon, and California

Indiana Primary:

Kennedy's campaign in Indiana showcased his strategic adaptability. Initially met with skepticism in a predominantly white, blue-collar state, he adjusted his image by cutting his hair and donning more modest attire to appeal to voters prioritizing law and order over his progressive ideals.

Dominic Sandbrook [35:29]: "The Kennedys are not invincible. They can be beaten."

Despite securing a victory in Indiana, Kennedy's support was heavily reliant on black and Hispanic voters, highlighting a significant racial and economic divide within his base.

Oregon Primary:

In contrast, the Oregon primary underscored the deepening split within the Democratic electorate. Eugene McCarthy's stronghold among progressive, educated voters clashed with Kennedy's appeal to the marginalized, resulting in McCarthy's decisive win and casting doubt on Kennedy's ability to galvanize a broader coalition.

Tom Holland [39:59]: "The Kennedys are not invincible. They can be beaten."

California Primary:

California, with its vast delegate pool and symbolic significance, became the battleground where Kennedy's fate was sealed. Navigating through the state's diverse and volatile political climate, Kennedy managed a narrow victory, propelled by his overwhelming support in Los Angeles County. However, behind the scenes, delegate counts revealed a daunting gap between Kennedy and Humphrey, foreshadowing the challenges that lay ahead.

The Assassination: A Nation in Shock

As the campaign reached its climax in June 1968, Robert Kennedy's life was tragically cut short. Following a triumphant victory speech in Los Angeles, Kennedy was fatally shot by Sirhan Sirhan, a Palestinian Christian deeply affected by geopolitical conflicts, particularly the Six-Day War.

Dominic Sandbrook [58:49]: "His assassination marked a critical turning point in American history."

The chaotic scene inside the Ambassador Hotel, captured vividly by eyewitnesses, underscored the volatile intersection of passion, political fervor, and societal tensions. Unlike the assassinations of JFK and Martin Luther King Jr., Kennedy's shooter was apprehended immediately, dispelling many conspiracy theories but leaving an indelible mark on the nation's psyche.

Legacy and Impact on American Politics

Robert Kennedy's assassination dealt a severe blow to the Democratic Party and American politics at large. As a symbol of hope and change, his death left a leadership void that would shortly be filled by figures like Hubert Humphrey and, ultimately, Richard Nixon's bitter ascendancy in the 1968 election.

Tom Holland [60:43]: "If he had lived, maybe everything would have been different."

Kennedy's vision of a compassionate, just society, and his efforts to bridge racial and economic divides resonated deeply, cementing his status as a martyr for progressive ideals. His untimely death not only altered the trajectory of the 1968 election but also reshaped the broader narrative of American history, emphasizing themes of loss, resilience, and the ongoing struggle for equality and peace.

Conclusion

Episode 510 of The Rest Is History offers a profound exploration of Robert Kennedy's final political endeavors and his enduring legacy. Through meticulous analysis and engaging dialogue, Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook illuminate the complexities of a man poised to change the course of history, only to be silenced in his prime. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of hope and the profound impact one individual can have on the nation's destiny.

Notable Quotes:

• Tom Holland [06:04]: "Robert Kennedy is the one that's perhaps the most Technicolor and fascinating."

• Dominic Sandbrook [10:18]: "He did it with a team of mountaineers who were incredibly impressed by him..."

• Dominic Sandbrook [35:29]: "The Kennedys are not invincible. They can be beaten."

• Dominic Sandbrook [58:49]: "His assassination marked a critical turning point in American history."

• Tom Holland [60:43]: "If he had lived, maybe everything would have been different."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of Episode 510, providing listeners with a detailed understanding of Robert Kennedy's dramatic and tragic journey in 1968. Whether revisiting history or encountering it anew, this episode serves as an essential chronicle of a pivotal moment in American politics.