The Men

The backgrounds of the two candidates are very different. Kennedy grew up in the wealthy, socially-select atmosphere of Boston. His father is a wealthy banker who was once Ambassador to Great Britain. His family's connections, influence and money were at his disposal when he decided to enter politics, and his career since 1956 has been one of steady preparation for the Presidency. His steamrolling of Senator Humphrey in this year's primary elections shows that Presidential politics are still a rich man's game, for Humphrey's organisation and campaign funds were nothing compared with Kennedy's.

Nixon, of course, has the resources of the Republican Party behind him. His origins are the reverse of Kennedy's. He came from a poor Californian Quaker family, and he worked his way through Law School against very heavy odds. Nixon's underdog, "poor-boy-makes-good" appeal will no doubt be made much of by Republicans. Actually, the distinction is now artificial. Nixon stands to the right, not the left, of the wealthy Democratic candidate on most issues. Both men show at times an appalling lack of humility in regard to their achievements and good luck, although this is more apparent in Kennedy. His speech accepting the Democratic nomination showed no sign that he regarded it as anything more than his due. An acceptance speech by Eisenhower or Stevenson, on the other hand, reflected enough humanity and emotion to give the parties affection as well as respect for their candidates.