John F. Kennedy's last words were, "No, they sure can't." These words were spoken moments before he was fatally shot in Dallas, Texas, on November 22, 1963.
The Context of His Final Words
President Kennedy was riding in a motorcade through Dealey Plaza with his wife, Jacqueline Kennedy, and Governor John Connally of Texas and his wife, Nellie Connally. As the presidential limousine proceeded, Nellie Connally turned to President Kennedy, who was seated behind her. She commented, "Mr. President, they can't make you believe now that there are not some in Dallas who love and appreciate you, can they?" This remark acknowledged the mixed political climate in Dallas at the time. Kennedy's brief reply—"No, they sure can't"—were his final words before the assassination began.
The Events Leading to the Assassination
The tragic events unfolded swiftly. The President's visit to Dallas was part of a political tour aimed at building support for the upcoming 1964 election. The motorcade route was publicly known, taking the procession through various parts of downtown Dallas.
Key individuals in the presidential limousine during the assassination:
| Individual | Role | Position in Car (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| John F. Kennedy | U.S. President | Rear passenger, right |
| Jacqueline Kennedy | First Lady | Rear passenger, left |
| John Connally | Governor of Texas | Middle row, left |
| Nellie Connally | First Lady of Texas (Governor's wife) | Middle row, right |
| William Greer | Secret Service Driver | Driver's seat |
| Roy Kellerman | Secret Service Agent | Front passenger, right |
As the motorcade passed the Texas School Book Depository building, shots were fired, striking President Kennedy and Governor Connally. The assassination brought a sudden and profound end to Kennedy's presidency, leaving his last exchange with Nellie Connally as a poignant detail of that historical moment.
