Weird Facts About JFK You Didn’t Know
John F. Kennedy, or JFK, is remembered as one of the most iconic American presidents, but there’s more to him than just politics and history. He had his own set of habits and facts that many people don’t know. Here are some unusual details about JFK’s life that go beyond what you read in history books.
A Bath Scale on Every Trip
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Despite his tall, athletic frame, JFK was obsessed with his weight, so much so that he never traveled without a bathroom scale. While it might seem unusual, this habit reflected his ongoing struggle with body image, despite being perfectly healthy by medical standards. His obsession stemmed from his mother’s fixation on the health of her children, who kept detailed records of their weights from a young age.
His ‘Fitzgerald Breasts’
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JFK was self-conscious about his appearance, particularly his chest. He famously avoided swimming in public because he didn’t want people to see what he called his “Fitzgerald breasts.” Ironically, he wasn’t overweight; his physique was pretty normal, but the insecurity about his chest lingered, reflecting a more vulnerable side of the leader that most didn’t know about.
The First to Donate His Salary
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He chose not to keep his presidential salary of $100,000 a year personally. He instead donated it to various charities. He retained the separate $50,000 expense account meant for official duties, but the entirety of his base salary went to causes including the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America and Catholic charities.
A Cigar Lover with a Secret Stash
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JFK was known to love cigars, but what most don’t know is that he stockpiled over 1,000 Cuban cigars right before he signed the embargo that banned all Cuban products in the U.S. His private collection was likely a result of his fondness for cigars and his desire to indulge in a luxury before it became illegal.
A Navy Hero with a Sinkable Boat
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Before becoming president, JFK was a Navy officer, and his boat, the PT-109, was sunk during World War II. But what’s even crazier is that JFK and his crew swam more than three miles to safety after the attack. The story of his heroism was cemented in American history, especially after he saved a fellow sailor by towing him through the water using his teeth.
Not Just a Political Family Man
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JFK was known for his leadership, but what many don’t know is how involved he was with his family. He regularly had his younger brother Robert by his side as his closest advisor. Even in the White House, Robert served as Attorney General, with JFK relying heavily on him for political counsel and decisions.
JFK’s Unlikely Love for Sailboats
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Whenever things got intense, JFK had a unique way of relieving stress. He liked to doodle sailboats during serious meetings. The habit wasn’t just a quirky pastime; it reflected his love of sailing. More than a hobby, his affinity for the sea became a mental escape during turbulent times in office.
A Top Hat Tradition Breaker
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When JFK was inaugurated in 1961, he became the last president to wear a top hat at the event. While it was still customary for incoming presidents to wear this formal headwear, Kennedy didn’t want to wear it during the actual ceremony. So, while he stuck to tradition, he removed the hat almost immediately, ushering in a more relaxed, modern era for presidential attire.
His Battle with Chronic Health Issues
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JFK’s image of strength masked a body that was rarely free of pain. He lived with Addison’s disease, endured constant back trouble, and relied on an array of medications to get through daily life. The back injury he first suffered playing football in college never healed, leaving him dependent on treatments throughout his presidency.
He Loved Spy Stories, But Didn’t Write One
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Kennedy had a real taste for spy stories, especially Ian Fleming’s James Bond series—he even named From Russia With Love as a personal favorite. Rumors that he wrote a spy novel don’t hold up, but he did toy with creative projects. In 1963 he sketched ideas for a playful short film, showing his lighter side and his interest in espionage themes.
The Kennedy Siblings Were Quite the Competitive Bunch
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Growing up in the Kennedy family, JFK had a strong sense of competition. The family dynamic was intense, with the Kennedy children encouraged to excel in almost every aspect of life. Whether it was sports, academics, or personal achievements, there was always a friendly (or sometimes not-so-friendly) competition among the siblings.
His Death Sparked Global Mourning
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When JFK was assassinated in 1963, the shock was felt worldwide. At his state funeral in Washington, D.C., representatives from more than 90 countries attended, along with 19 heads of state and numerous other dignitaries. The turnout demonstrated his global influence and the deep sense of loss felt well beyond American borders, as leaders and citizens alike mourned a president who had become a symbol of progress and hope.
A Legacy Preserved Through Collections
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The politician valued history, and today his legacy is reflected in the extensive collections held at the JFK Presidential Library and Museum. The institution houses nearly 30,000 artifacts, including personal belongings, campaign memorabilia, and gifts from world leaders. In addition, the Kennedy Family Collection features thousands of personal documents and photographs, offering future generations a preserved record of his life and presidency.
JFK’s Unlikely Fascination with Space
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Before the moon landing, JFK was an early advocate for space exploration. He set ambitious goals for NASA, including landing a man on the moon by the end of the 1960s. What many don’t know is how personally involved he was with the space race, often meeting with scientists and engineers to discuss the future of space exploration.
A Massive Collection of Historical Artifacts
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JFK was a fan of history, and his love for collecting artifacts was no secret. His personal collection was extensive and included rare documents. His interest in preserving history for future generations was part of his broader vision, where he emphasized public service and leaving a legacy for future Americans.