Full History Of John Kerry In Timeline From 1901

1901: Conversion of John Kerry's Paternal Grandparents to Catholicism

In 1901, John Kerry's paternal grandparents, Frederick and Ida Kerry (originally Kohn), along with Frederick's brother, converted from Judaism to Catholicism and changed their surname to Kerry.

1905: John Kerry's Paternal Grandparents Immigrate to the United States

John Kerry's paternal grandparents, Fred and Ida Kerry, emigrated from the Austro-Hungarian Empire to the United States in 1905, initially residing in Chicago before settling in Brookline, Massachusetts, by 1915.

December 11, 1943: Birth of John Forbes Kerry

John Forbes Kerry was born on December 11, 1943.

1944: Kerry Family's Move to Washington, D.C.

After John Kerry's father was discharged from the Army Air Corps in 1944, the family moved to Washington, D.C., where his father began working for the Department of the Navy and later the State Department.

1957: Kerry Attends Boarding School

When his father was stationed in Oslo, Norway, in 1957, John Kerry returned to the United States to attend boarding schools, first Fessenden School and later St. Paul's School.

1960: Founding of the John Winant Society

John Kerry founded the John Winant Society, a debate club, at St. Paul's School in 1960.

1961: Kerry's Rock Band Releases Album

John Kerry's rock band, The Electras, released an album in 1961 while they were students at St. Paul's School.

1962: Kerry Attends Yale and Briefly Dates Janet Auchincloss

John Kerry began attending Yale University in 1962, where he briefly dated Janet Auchincloss, the half-sister of Jacqueline Kennedy.

March 1965: Kerry Wins Ten Eyck Prize for Oratory

In March 1965, John Kerry won the Ten Eyck prize for his oratory skills at Yale University, delivering a speech critical of U.S. foreign policy.

February 18, 1966: Kerry Enlists in the Naval Reserve

John Kerry enlisted in the Naval Reserve on February 18, 1966.

August 1966: Beginning of Active Duty in US Navy

John Kerry began his active duty service in the United States Navy in August 1966.

August 19, 1966: Kerry Begins Active Duty

John Kerry began his active duty military service on August 19, 1966.

December 16, 1966: Commissioning as a Naval Officer

After completing Officer Candidate School, John Kerry received his commission as a naval officer on December 16, 1966.

1966: Kerry Graduates Yale and Enlists in the Navy

After graduating from Yale University in 1966, John Kerry enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve.

1966: Kerry Graduates from Yale

John Kerry graduated from Yale University in 1966 with a bachelor's degree in political science.

December 3, 1968: First Purple Heart Medal

During a mission near Cam Ranh Bay on December 3, 1968, John Kerry's swift boat surprised a group of Vietnamese men. In the ensuing encounter, Kerry's boat destroyed the sampans, and Kerry sustained a shrapnel wound in his left arm, earning him his first Purple Heart Medal.

February 20, 1969: Second Purple Heart Medal

On February 20, 1969, while on a mission on the Bồ Đề River, John Kerry's boat was hit by a B-40 rocket. Kerry was wounded in the leg by shrapnel, earning him his second Purple Heart Medal.

February 28, 1969: Silver Star Medal

John Kerry was awarded the Silver Star Medal for his actions on February 28, 1969, on the Duong Keo River. During a combat operation, Kerry led his swift boat and two others, directing fire and coordinating troop insertions. When his boat was targeted by a rocket, Kerry pursued and killed the enemy combatant, capturing a loaded rocket launcher.

March 1, 1969: Press Release on Duong Keo River incident

A press release was written on March 1, 1969, documenting the events on the Duong Keo River that led to Kerry's Silver Star Medal.

March 13, 1969: Third Qualifying Wound

On March 13, 1969, while on the Bái Háp River, Kerry's boat was involved in an incident where a mine detonated beneath a nearby boat. Although Kerry sustained a minor shrapnel wound earlier that day, this incident marked his third qualifying wound, making him eligible for reassignment away from combat duties.

March 17, 1969: Historical Summary of Duong Keo River Incident

On March 17, 1969, a historical summary was created documenting the events on the Duong Keo River that led to Kerry's Silver Star Medal.

April 11, 1969: Reassignment to Non-Combat Duty

After sustaining his third qualifying wound, John Kerry was reassigned to non-combat duty. On April 11, 1969, he reported to the Atlantic Military Sea Transportation Service in Brooklyn, where he served as a personal aide to Rear Admiral Walter Schlech.

December 1969: Extension of Active Duty Obligation

John Kerry extended his active duty obligation from December 1969 to August 1970 to continue his service on Swift Boats.

January 1, 1970: Temporary Promotion to Lieutenant

On January 1, 1970, John Kerry was temporarily promoted to the rank of full lieutenant.

January 1970: End of Active Duty in US Navy

John Kerry concluded his active duty service in the US Navy in January 1970.

August 1970: End of Swift Boat Duty Extension

John Kerry's extension of active duty for Swift Boat service ended in August 1970.

1970: Kerry Considers Congressional Run, Supports Drinan

In 1970, John Kerry considered running for Congress in Massachusetts's 3rd congressional district. He ultimately decided to support Robert Drinan, an anti-war activist, who went on to win the election.

1970: John Kerry Marries Julia Thorne

John Kerry married Julia Thorne in 1970.

April 22, 1971: Kerry Testifies Before Senate Committee and Participates in Anti-War Protest

On April 22, 1971, John Kerry testified before a U.S. Senate committee regarding proposals to end the Vietnam War. Later that day, he participated in a demonstration where veterans threw their medals and ribbons over a fence at the U.S. Capitol in protest of the war. Kerry threw some of his own awards, stating, "I'm not doing this for any violent reasons, but for peace and justice, and to try and make this country wake up once and for all."

May 30, 1971: Arrest at VVAW Protest

On May 30, 1971, John Kerry was arrested during a Vietnam Veterans Against the War (VVAW) protest in Lexington, Massachusetts. The protest was a march to honor American prisoners of war held in North Vietnam. Kerry and over 400 demonstrators were arrested for trespassing while attempting to camp on the Lexington village green.

1971: Kerry's First Testimony Before Senate Foreign Relations Committee

In 1971, John Kerry appeared before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for the first time. This early appearance before the committee highlights Kerry's longstanding involvement in foreign policy matters.

February 1972: Kerry Prepares for Congressional Run

In February 1972, John Kerry and his wife rented an apartment in Lowell, Massachusetts, in preparation for his run for Congress in the 5th district.

1972: Kerry's "Years in Exile"

Following his defeat in the 1972 congressional election, John Kerry and his wife moved to Lowell, Massachusetts, marking a period his brother later referred to as "the years in exile." Kerry worked as a fundraiser for CARE, an international humanitarian organization, before entering law school.

1972: Kerry's Entry into Politics

John Kerry began his political career in 1972 as a Democratic candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in Massachusetts.

September 5, 1973: Birth of Alexandra Kerry

Alexandra Kerry, John Kerry's first daughter, was born on September 5, 1973, just days before he began law school.

September 1973: Kerry Enters Law School

In September 1973, John Kerry entered Boston College Law School. During this time, he also worked as a talk radio host.

July 1974: Kerry Leads Mass Action

In July 1974, while studying at Boston College Law School, John Kerry became the executive director of Mass Action, a Massachusetts advocacy group.

1976: Kerry Graduates Law School, Begins Legal Career

John Kerry graduated from Boston College Law School with a Juris Doctor degree in 1976. He passed the bar exam, was admitted to the Massachusetts bar, and began working as a prosecutor in the Middlesex County District Attorney's office.

December 31, 1976: Birth of Vanessa Kerry

Vanessa Kerry, John Kerry's second daughter, was born on December 31, 1976.

January 1977: Kerry Becomes First Assistant District Attorney

In January 1977, John Kerry was promoted to First Assistant District Attorney in Middlesex County, Massachusetts. In this role, he tried cases, managed the office, and initiated new programs.

February 1978: End of Service in Naval Reserve

John Kerry continued to serve in the Naval Reserve until February 1978.

1978: Kerry's Political Aspirations and Career Shift

In 1978, John Kerry planned to run for District Attorney but ultimately decided against it when the incumbent's health improved.

1978: Kerry Investigates Senator Edward Brooke

In 1978, as First Assistant District Attorney, John Kerry launched an investigation into potential criminal charges against Senator Edward Brooke related to misstatements made during his divorce trial. The investigation concluded without any charges filed.

1979: Kerry Meets with Iranian Foreign Minister

In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, John Kerry met with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on September 27, 2013, during the P5+1 and Iran summit. This marked the highest-level direct engagement between the United States and Iran since the 1979 Iranian Revolution.

1979: Kerry Starts Law Firm, Explores New Ventures

John Kerry left the District Attorney's office in 1979 to establish a law firm with colleague Roanne Sragow. He also worked as a TV commentator and co-founded a bakery.

1982: Election as Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts

In 1982, John Kerry was elected the 66th lieutenant governor of Massachusetts.

1982: John Kerry and Julia Thorne Separate

Julia Thorne, suffering from severe depression, asked John Kerry for a separation in 1982.

1984: Kerry Runs for US Senate

In 1984, John Kerry ran for the US Senate seat vacated by Paul Tsongas. Despite not initially having the support of the Democratic party establishment, he won the primary.

1984: Election to the United States Senate

John Kerry was elected to the United States Senate in 1984.

January 2, 1985: Kerry Appointed to US Senate

John Kerry was appointed to the US Senate on January 2, 1985, to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Paul Tsongas. This appointment gave him seniority over other newly elected senators.

April 18, 1985: Kerry's Controversial Trip to Nicaragua

On April 18, 1985, Senator John Kerry and Senator Tom Harkin traveled to Nicaragua to meet with President Daniel Ortega, a controversial figure due to his leftist Sandinista government's ties to Cuba and the USSR. Kerry and Harkin's meeting, during which Ortega offered a cease-fire in exchange for the US ending support for the Contras, sparked criticism and was denounced by the Reagan administration.

1986: Kerry's Account of His Swift Boat Service

In a 1986 book, John Kerry shared his experiences serving on Swift boats during the Vietnam War, mentioning his initial desire for a coastal patrolling role.

1987: Chairmanship of DSCC

Kerry served as the chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee from 1987 to 1989.

July 25, 1988: John Kerry and Julia Thorne Divorce

John Kerry and Julia Thorne divorced on July 25, 1988.

November 15, 1988: Kerry Apologizes for Quayle Joke

John Kerry made a controversial joke about then-President-elect George H. W. Bush and his running mate, Dan Quayle, on November 15, 1988. He apologized for the remark the following day.

May 4, 1989: North Convicted in Iran-Contra Affair

On May 4, 1989, Lieutenant Colonel Oliver North was convicted on charges related to the Iran-Contra affair, a significant event that followed John Kerry's earlier investigation and report on the matter.

1989: End of DSCC Chairmanship

In 1989, Kerry's term as the chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee concluded.

1990: John Kerry Meets Teresa Heinz

John Kerry met Teresa Heinz, the widow of his late Senate colleague John Heinz, at an Earth Day rally in 1990.

1990: Re-election to the Senate

Kerry was re-elected to the Senate in 1990.

September 16, 1991: North's Conviction Overturned

On September 16, 1991, Oliver North's convictions in the Iran-Contra affair were overturned on appeal.

1991: Chairmanship of POW/MIA Committee

From 1991 to 1993, Kerry served as the chairman of the Senate Select Committee on POW/MIA Affairs.

1991: BCCI Shutdown

In 1991, banking regulators shut down the Bank of Credit and Commerce International (BCCI) after Kerry's staff uncovered evidence of the bank's involvement in drug trafficking and money laundering during an investigation into Manuel Noriega.

December 1992: The BCCI Affair

In December 1992, Kerry and Senator Hank Brown released "The BCCI Affair," a report exposing the Bank of Credit and Commerce International (BCCI) scandal. The report revealed the bank's illegal activities, including involvement with terrorists and money laundering.

1993: POW/MIA Committee Report

In 1993, the Senate Select Committee on POW/MIA Affairs, under Kerry's chairmanship, released a report concluding there was no compelling evidence of American prisoners of war still alive in Southeast Asia.

1994: Opposition to Integral Fast Reactor Funding

In 1994, John Kerry led opposition to continued funding for the Integral Fast Reactor project.

1994: Resolution to End Vietnam Trade Embargo

Kerry and Senator John McCain jointly sponsored a resolution, passed by the Senate in 1994, to lift the trade embargo on Vietnam, aiming to normalize relations.

May 26, 1995: John Kerry Marries Teresa Heinz

John Kerry married Teresa Heinz on May 26, 1995, in Nantucket, Massachusetts.

1995: Normalization of US-Vietnam Relations

President Bill Clinton formally normalized diplomatic relations with Vietnam in 1995.

1996: Re-election to the Senate

In 1996, Kerry won re-election to the Senate, defeating the popular Republican incumbent, Governor William Weld, in a closely watched race.

July 1997: Vote Against Kyoto Treaty Ratification

In July 1997, Kerry joined other senators in voting against the ratification of the Kyoto Treaty on global warming, citing the lack of greenhouse gas emissions limits on developing nations.

1997: John Kerry and Julia Thorne's Marriage Annulled

John Kerry and Julia Thorne's marriage was formally annulled in 1997.

2000: Controversy Surrounding George W. Bush's Military Service

During the 2000 presidential election, George W. Bush's military service in the Texas Air National Guard was called into question, with accusations that he used his father's influence to avoid service in Vietnam.

October 9, 2002: Support for Use of Force Authorization

On October 9, 2002, Kerry voted to authorize President Bush to use force against Saddam Hussein, citing the threat of weapons of mass destruction.

2002: Re-election to the Senate

Kerry was re-elected to the Senate in 2002.

2002: Death of Rosemary Forbes Kerry

Rosemary Forbes Kerry, John Kerry's mother, passed away in 2002.

January 23, 2003: Georgetown University Speech

On January 23, 2003, Kerry delivered a speech at Georgetown University, advocating for the disarmament of Saddam Hussein while also urging the Bush administration to prioritize diplomatic solutions before resorting to war.

2003: National Journal Ranking

In 2003, Kerry was ranked as the top Senate liberal by the National Journal based on his voting record from the previous year.

2003: Account of Kerry's Actions From Commanding Officer

In 2003, Kerry's commanding officer, Lieutenant Commander George Elliott, recounted Kerry's actions on the Duong Keo River, highlighting the difficult decision of whether to court-martial or award him for his actions.

2003: John Kerry Discovers His Jewish Ancestry

John Kerry learned about his Jewish ancestry from a reporter in 2003. His paternal grandparents had converted from Judaism to Catholicism in 1901.

2003: John Kerry Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer

John Kerry was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2003 and successfully underwent treatment.

February 3, 2004: Kerry's Success in Democratic Primaries

On February 3, 2004, John Kerry achieved significant victories in key states like Arizona, South Carolina, and New Mexico during the Democratic presidential primaries. This followed his win in the Iowa caucuses, marking a turning point in his campaign.

March 16, 2004: "I Did Vote for the $87 Billion Before I Voted Against It"

On March 16, 2004, John Kerry made a statement about a bill funding the Iraq War, saying, "I actually did vote for the $87 billion before I voted against it." This statement was used by the Bush campaign to portray him as inconsistent in his stance.

July 6, 2004: John Edwards Announced as Kerry's Running Mate

On July 6, 2004, John Kerry, the Democratic nominee for president, selected John Edwards as his vice-presidential running mate. This decision was later criticized by some, including Kerry's campaign advisor Bob Shrum.

October 2004: John Kerry's Interview with Christianity Today

John Kerry gave an interview to Christianity Today in October 2004.

November 3, 2004: Kerry Concedes Presidential Election

On November 3, 2004, John Kerry conceded the presidential election to George W. Bush. Despite receiving a significant number of popular votes, Kerry fell short in the electoral college, securing 251 votes to Bush's 286.

2004: Swift Boat Veterans for Truth Challenge Kerry's War Record

During the 2004 presidential campaign, a group called Swift Boat Veterans for Truth challenged John Kerry's Vietnam War record and military awards. This challenge, though disputed by Kerry and many of his former crewmates, led to the term "swiftboating" as a pejorative term for unfair political attacks.

2004: Political Stances and Voting Record

During the 2004 presidential election, Kerry's voting record was scrutinized. While labeled a "staunch liberal" by some, his career voting record placed him as the 11th most liberal senator by the National Journal.

2004: Post-Election Speculation and Kerry's Future Plans

Immediately following the 2004 election, discussions emerged about John Kerry potentially running for president again in 2008. His brother hinted at this possibility, and Kerry himself suggested that there's "always another four years."

2004: Estimation of Teresa Heinz Kerry's Net Worth

In 2004, Forbes estimated Teresa Heinz Kerry's net worth to be $750 million, making John Kerry potentially the third-richest U.S. president in history if elected. However, their assets were kept separate due to a prenuptial agreement.

2004: John Kerry's Jewish Ancestry Revealed During Presidential Campaign

John Kerry's Jewish ancestry became public knowledge during his 2004 presidential campaign.

2005: Kerry's Political Engagement Continues

In 2005, John Kerry continued to be politically active by establishing a political action committee called Keeping America's Promise. Through this initiative, he raised over $5.5 million to support Democratic candidates in various state and federal races.

April 27, 2006: Death of Julia Thorne

Julia Thorne, John Kerry's first wife, died of cancer on April 27, 2006.

October 30, 2006: Campaign Rally Speech

On October 30, 2006, Kerry made a controversial statement at a campaign rally for Phil Angelides, saying those who don't succeed in education would "get stuck in Iraq."

2006: Kerry's Support for Democrats in the 2006 Midterm Elections

During the 2006 election cycle, John Kerry, through his campaign account and political action committee, raised over $10 million for Democratic candidates. This funding was directed towards 179 candidates across 42 states, demonstrating his commitment to supporting Democrats in the U.S. House, Senate, and state and local offices.

January 10, 2008: Kerry Endorses Obama, Fuels VP Speculation

On January 10, 2008, John Kerry publicly endorsed Barack Obama for president. This endorsement fueled speculation that Kerry himself might be considered as a potential vice-presidential candidate on the Obama ticket.

October 1, 2008: Support for TARP Bailout

On October 1, 2008, Kerry voted in favor of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, commonly known as the TARP bailout.

2008: Post-Election Speculation and Kerry's Future Plans

Immediately following the 2004 election, discussions emerged about John Kerry potentially running for president again in 2008. His brother hinted at this possibility, and Kerry himself suggested that there's "always another four years."

2008: Re-election to the Senate

Kerry was re-elected to the Senate in 2008.

January 2009: Chairmanship of Senate Foreign Relations Committee

In January 2009, Kerry became the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, succeeding Joe Biden.

August 25, 2009: Senior Senator from Massachusetts

Following the death of Ted Kennedy, Kerry became the senior senator from Massachusetts on August 25, 2009.

July 23, 2010: John Kerry's Yacht Purchase and Tax Controversy

The Boston Herald reported on July 23, 2010, that John Kerry had a new $7 million yacht built in New Zealand and moored in Rhode Island, allegedly to avoid Massachusetts taxes. Kerry later agreed to pay $500,000 in Massachusetts taxes on the yacht.

May 2011: Diplomatic Efforts in Afghanistan and Pakistan

In May 2011, following the killing of Osama bin Laden, Kerry played a key role in navigating the crucial juncture in US-Afghan and US-Pakistan relations. He visited both countries, retrieved the helicopter tail-section from the bin Laden raid, and discussed recalibrating bilateral relationships.

2011: Support for Military Action in Libya

In 2011, Kerry expressed his support for US military intervention in Libya.

2011: Disclosure of John Kerry's Personal Assets

John Kerry's financial disclosure form in 2011 revealed his personal assets to be between $230 million and $320 million, including assets of his spouse and dependent children. This included over $3 million in H.J. Heinz Company assets.

2011: Global Generation Award

Kerry received the Global Generation Award from the Millennium Campus Network in 2011 for his advocacy for global development and his role as a role model for campus leaders.

December 15, 2012: Kerry Nominated for Secretary of State

On December 15, 2012, reports surfaced indicating that President Barack Obama intended to nominate John Kerry for the position of Secretary of State. This followed the withdrawal of Susan Rice from consideration due to criticism surrounding her handling of the Benghazi attack.

2012: Kerry Aids Obama's Reelection Campaign

In 2012, John Kerry played a role in President Barack Obama's reelection campaign. He participated in debate preparation sessions with Obama, taking on the role of Republican candidate Mitt Romney to help the president prepare for their debates.

January 2013: Nomination and Confirmation as Secretary of State

President Obama nominated John Kerry for the position of Secretary of State in January 2013, and he was subsequently confirmed by the Senate.

January 24, 2013: Kerry's Confirmation Hearing for Secretary of State

On January 24, 2013, John Kerry's confirmation hearing for the position of Secretary of State took place before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. This was the same committee where Kerry had first testified back in 1971.

January 29, 2013: Senate Confirms Kerry as Secretary of State

On January 29, 2013, the full U.S. Senate voted to confirm John Kerry as Secretary of State. The vote was 94-3 in favor of Kerry's confirmation, marking his transition from Senator to a key role in the Obama administration.

February 1, 2013: Kerry Sworn in as Secretary of State

John Kerry was officially sworn in as Secretary of State on February 1, 2013, succeeding Hillary Clinton and taking on a central role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during Obama's second term.

July 30, 2013: Kerry Brokers Israeli-Palestinian Peace Talks

After months of intense diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, John Kerry successfully facilitated the start of the 2013–2014 Israeli–Palestinian peace talks. A dinner hosted by Kerry on July 30, 2013, paved the way for direct negotiations between Israeli and Palestinian representatives at the State Department.

August 21, 2013: Advocacy for Military Action in Syria

Following the August 21, 2013, chemical weapons attack in Syria, John Kerry became a leading advocate for the use of military force against the Syrian government.

September 27, 2013: Kerry Meets with Iranian Foreign Minister

In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, John Kerry met with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on September 27, 2013, during the P5+1 and Iran summit. This marked the highest-level direct engagement between the United States and Iran since the 1979 Iranian Revolution.

November 2013: Remarks on the Monroe Doctrine

In November 2013, John Kerry remarked that the era of the Monroe Doctrine was over, emphasizing equal partnerships between countries.

2013: Meeting with Pakistan Army Chief

In 2013, Kerry met with Pakistan's army chief, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, to discuss the Afghan peace process and the potential for negotiations with the Taliban.

2013: Increase in Value of John Kerry's H.J. Heinz Company Assets

The value of John Kerry's H.J. Heinz Company assets rose by over $600,000 in 2013 following Berkshire Hathaway's announcement to purchase the company.

January 2014: Kerry Discusses Syria with Vatican Officials

In January 2014, John Kerry held discussions with Vatican officials, including Archbishop Pietro Parolin, focusing on the crisis in Syria. Kerry expressed appreciation for the Pope's support for the Geneva II peace process and the Vatican's concern for those affected by the conflict.

July 20, 2014: Syria Chemical Weapons Deal

On July 20, 2014, John Kerry declared that a deal had been struck to eliminate Syria's chemical weapons arsenal.

2014: Kerry Brokers Israeli-Palestinian Peace Talks

After months of intense diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, John Kerry successfully facilitated the start of the 2013–2014 Israeli–Palestinian peace talks. A dinner hosted by Kerry on July 30, 2013, paved the way for direct negotiations between Israeli and Palestinian representatives at the State Department.

2014: Support for Israel

In 2014, John Kerry expressed support for Israel's right to defend itself during the 2014 Israel–Gaza conflict.

2014: Israeli-Palestinian Peace Talks

John Kerry initiated the 2013–2014 Israeli–Palestinian peace talks during his time as Secretary of State.

2014: Kerry's Tenure as Secretary of State: A Mixed Bag

John Kerry's performance as Secretary of State in 2014 was met with a mixture of opinions. While he received praise for his diplomatic efforts and enjoyed high approval ratings, internal criticism emerged regarding his management style and focus.

May 31, 2015: John Kerry Injured in Biking Accident

John Kerry broke his right leg in a biking accident in Scionzier, France, on May 31, 2015. He was flown to Boston for surgery and recovery.

September 2015: Global Connect Initiative

In September 2015, the U.S. Department of State, under John Kerry's leadership, unveiled the "Global Connect" initiative to expand internet access globally.

2015: Iran Nuclear Deal and Paris Agreement

In 2015, John Kerry played a key role in negotiating agreements to restrict Iran's nuclear program and signed the Paris Agreement on climate change on behalf of the United States.

April 2016: Signing of the Paris Climate Accords

John Kerry signed the Paris Climate Accords at the United Nations in New York in April 2016.

November 11, 2016: Visit to Antarctica

On November 11, 2016, John Kerry became the first Secretary of State to visit Antarctica, spending two days meeting with researchers.

December 28, 2016: Criticism of Israeli Settlement Policies

On December 28, 2016, soon after the UN Security Council Resolution 2334 passed, John Kerry joined the rest of the U.N. Security Council in strongly criticizing Israel's settlement policies in a speech.

2016: Investment in Indian Broadband Network

In 2016, John Kerry announced a $171 million investment to support a wireless broadband network in India.

January 20, 2017: Retirement from Diplomatic Work

John Kerry retired from diplomatic work on January 20, 2017, following the end of the Obama administration.

April 2017: John Kerry Purchases Property in Martha's Vineyard

John Kerry bought an 18-acre property with a seven-bedroom home in Chilmark, Massachusetts, for $11.75 million in April 2017.

2017: Reversal on Nuclear Power

In 2017, John Kerry reversed his position on nuclear power, supporting it as a solution for climate change.

2017: End of Tenure as Secretary of State

John Kerry served as U.S. Secretary of State until 2017, marking the end of his term under the Obama administration.

September 2018: Publication of Memoirs

John Kerry published his memoirs, "Every Day Is Extra", in September 2018.

November 2018: Discussion on Global Issues

In November 2018, John Kerry discussed global issues such as migration and climate change in a public conversation.

December 5, 2019: Endorsement of Joe Biden

On December 5, 2019, John Kerry endorsed Joe Biden's bid for the Democratic presidential nomination.

November 23, 2020: Appointment as Climate Envoy

On November 23, 2020, Joe Biden's transition team announced John Kerry's appointment as Special Presidential Envoy for Climate.

January 2021: Appointment as U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate

John Kerry returned to government service in January 2021 as the U.S. special presidential envoy for climate under President Biden.

January 20, 2021: Assumption of Office as Climate Envoy

John Kerry assumed office as Special Presidential Envoy for Climate on January 20, 2021.

April 25, 2021: Leaked Audiotape Controversy

On April 25, 2021, The New York Times published content from a leaked audiotape of a conversation between Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and an economist, which mentioned John Kerry.

April 27, 2021: Calls for Resignation and Denial

On April 27, 2021, Republicans called for John Kerry's resignation from the National Security Council following allegations from a leaked audiotape. Kerry denied the allegations.

June 2023: John Kerry's Middle East Tour for Climate Action

John Kerry visited Israel, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates in June 2023 to promote climate action. He urged Israel to pass climate legislation and renewed a memorandum of understanding between the US Environmental Protection Agency and Israel. This visit highlighted Israel's lack of a climate law despite being a developed country.

July 2023: John Kerry's Visit to India for Climate Discussions

During a visit to India in July 2023, John Kerry reaffirmed the USA's commitment to providing climate action funding to low-income countries. He emphasized that this commitment would remain regardless of future presidential changes, also criticizing former President Donald Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.

July 2023: John Kerry's Visit to China for Climate Cooperation

In July 2023, amidst a record-breaking heatwave in Asia, John Kerry visited China to advance climate cooperation. The visit yielded progress in areas like methane reduction, reducing China's coal reliance, addressing trade concerns related to solar panels, and climate finance, despite existing challenges.

January 13, 2024: Announcement of John Kerry's Resignation as U.S. Climate Envoy

On January 13, 2024, sources close to John Kerry revealed his intention to step down as U.S. climate envoy in the upcoming spring. Kerry shared his plans to continue working in climate finance.