Introduction
The assassination of John F. Kennedy remains the most dissected crime in modern history. Among countless theories, one persistent narrative claims Kennedy was killed not by a lone gunman, but by an ultraright-wing faction within the U.S. establishment—CIA, military, and business interests opposed to his policies on Cuba, civil rights, and Vietnam.
Origins
This hypothesis gained traction through whistleblowers, journalists, and disaffected insiders who believed JFK’s peace initiatives and reformist agenda made him a target for a coordinated coup, covered up by the Warren Commission.
Theories and Interpretations
- Deep State Coup: A network of anti-Communist hawks, oilmen, and military brass orchestrated the hit.
- Cover-up: The “lone gunman” story was designed to deflect from a deeper, institutional conspiracy.
- Cold War Paranoia: Fear of détente and nuclear de-escalation fueled the plot.
Key Examples
- Testimony of figures like E. Howard Hunt and David Talbot’s work on the Dulles brothers.
- Linkages to Operation Northwoods and failed anti-Castro plots.
- Endless books, films, and FOIA requests surrounding the “hidden hand” theory.
Critical Analysis
While never conclusively proven, the ultraright coup theory underscores America’s historical fears about the shadow government and the cost of challenging entrenched power.