Conspiracies still coming 54 years later

It’s been 54 years and many historians remain obsessed with the assassination of John F. Kennedy.

History can’t decide whether or not he was a great president. It’s possible that had he lived, he wouldn’t have been re-elected.

Much changed on November 22, 1963.

It was the moment when the American people realized what their leaders were telling them wasn’t necessarily the truth. Generations grew up trusting politicians, military, bureaucrats, police, teachers, clergy, media and even professional athletes. Today, a position of importance in the community no longer comes with guaranteed trust, one must earn it. If something appears odd, chances are it is.

Still, to this day, the questions remain.

How could Oswald shoot with such accuracy? Why did he wait for the limousine to make an awkward turn? Why was he allowed to leave the United States, move to Russia, return with a Russian bride, go on local television to trumpet the virtues of Marxist Leninism, and get a job in a government building — all during the height of the Cold War?

The biggest mistake, which historians seldom recognize, was made by the Dallas Police Department. Oswald was shot under their watch. It was their responsibility to keep the suspect safe and to bring him to trial. And after all these years later, the world never knows if he acted alone.

A year doesn’t go by when the Kennedy assassination is not in the news. Documents are now being unsealed and they’re not providing any new clues. Last year, Natalie Portman received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Jacqueline Kennedy in a film dealing with the days between the assassination and funeral.

It remains the greatest locked-room mystery ever.

In many ways, conspiracy theorists have trivialized the life and presidency of Jack Kennedy. With all of the key figures dead, an explanation other than the angry, lone nut can never be proven.

It’s time for everyone to move on.