Details:

John F. Kennedy autographed and inscribed this copy of Why England Slept to Benjamin A. Smith II, Kennedy’s Harvard roommate, lifelong friend, and future successor to JFK’s United States Senate seat. Written on the front endpaper, Kennedy’s inscription reads: “To Ben Smith, a great guy and smart too, who gave me most of my information,” followed by his signature, “Jack.”

This warm and humorous inscription reflects the close friendship shared by Kennedy and Smith dating back to their undergraduate years at Harvard University. Kennedy’s comment crediting Smith with providing “most of my information” is particularly fitting, as Why England Slept originated from Kennedy’s Harvard senior thesis and represents the earliest major work of his political career.

Published in New York by Wilfred Funk, Inc. in September 1940, this example is a first edition, fifth printing small octavo volume comprising 252 pages. Why England Slept originated from Kennedy’s Harvard senior thesis and examined Britain’s military unpreparedness in the years preceding the Second World War. The book brought national attention to the young Kennedy and helped establish his reputation as an emerging political thinker. Today it remains one of the most important and collectible works associated with the future president.

The provenance of this volume adds substantially to its historical significance. Benjamin A. Smith II (1916–1991) was one of John F. Kennedy’s closest lifelong friends. The two met while students at Harvard University and remained close throughout Kennedy’s political rise and presidency. Following Kennedy’s election to the White House in 1960, Smith was appointed to fill JFK’s vacant United States Senate seat, serving as United States Senator from Massachusetts from 1960 to 1962. Few individuals occupied a more unique position within Kennedy’s personal and political circle.

Good condition overall. The volume exhibits expected age toning, foxing, and handling wear consistent with age. The dust jacket is missing. The cloth binding shows light wear, and the inscription page displays areas of age-related discoloration. Kennedy’s inscription and signature remain bold.

Provenance: From the estate of Benjamin A. Smith II, Harvard roommate and lifelong friend of President John F. Kennedy, former United States Senator from Massachusetts. Accompanied by a signed letter of provenance from Benjamin A. Smith III documenting direct family ownership.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

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Reference sku: 11691 1416375-1