Challenges in the Life of John Kerry in a Detailed Timeline

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of John Kerry. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

John Kerry is an American politician and diplomat, notable for his long career in public service. He served as Secretary of State under President Barack Obama, as a U.S. Senator representing Massachusetts for nearly three decades, and as the first U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate. He was the Democratic presidential nominee in 2004, ultimately losing to George W. Bush. Kerry's career has focused on foreign policy, environmental issues, and domestic politics.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

May 30, 1971: Kerry Arrested During VVAW March

On May 30, 1971, Kerry was arrested during a Vietnam Veterans Against the War (VVAW) march in Lexington, Massachusetts. Kerry and 440 other demonstrators were arrested for trespassing and spent the night in jail before paying a $5 fine.

1972: House of Representatives Candidacy

In 1972, John Kerry entered electoral politics as a Democratic candidate for the United States House of Representatives in Massachusetts's 5th congressional district, but he lost to Republican Paul W. Cronin in the general election.

1982: Julia Thorne requests separation

In 1982, Julia Thorne asked Kerry for a separation while suffering from severe depression.

July 1997: Voted Against Kyoto Treaty Ratification

In July 1997, John Kerry voted against the ratification of the Kyoto Treaty due to the absence of greenhouse gas emission limits for developing nations like India and China.

October 9, 2002: Vote to Authorize Use of Force in Iraq

On October 9, 2002, John Kerry stated he would vote to give the President authority to use force to disarm Saddam Hussein, believing his weapons of mass destruction posed a threat.

January 23, 2003: Speech on Disarming Saddam Hussein

On January 23, 2003, John Kerry gave a speech at Georgetown University, stating the need to disarm Saddam Hussein due to his threat with weapons of mass destruction, while also warning against rushing to war without exhausting diplomatic options.

2003: Diagnosis and Treatment for Prostate Cancer

In 2003, John Kerry was diagnosed with prostate cancer and successfully treated.

2003: Rated Top Senate Liberal

In 2003, John Kerry was rated as the top Senate liberal by the National Journal, based solely on his voting record for that year.

March 16, 2004: Statement on $87 Billion Appropriation

On March 16, 2004, John Kerry's statement, "I actually did vote for the $87 billion before I voted against it", was used against him during his presidential campaign.

November 3, 2004: Conceded Presidential Race

On November 3, 2004, John Kerry conceded the presidential race to George W. Bush, after receiving 48.3% of the popular vote and 251 electoral votes.

2004: Portrayed as Staunch Liberal

During the 2004 presidential election, conservative groups and the Bush campaign portrayed John Kerry as a staunch liberal.

2004: Democratic Presidential Nominee

In 2004, John Kerry was the Democratic nominee for President of the United States, but lost the election to incumbent President George W. Bush.

2004: Democratic Presidential Nomination and Election Loss

In 2004, John Kerry won the Democratic presidential nomination alongside Senator John Edwards but ultimately lost the Electoral College and the popular vote to George W. Bush.

May 31, 2015: Biking Accident in France

On May 31, 2015, John Kerry broke his right leg in a biking accident in Scionzier, France. He was subsequently flown to Boston's Massachusetts General Hospital for recovery.