Sam Parr

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Learning Plan: Who killed JFK?

Alright, let's dive into the juicy stuff and get this no-BS learning plan rolling. I'll keep it concise, actionable, and fun—because who doesn't love a good JFK assassination mystery?

1. Breaking it Down in a Nutshell

ELI5 Explanation: Imagine you have a really important ice cream cone, and suddenly, it disappears. You know someone took it, but you don't know who. That's kind of like what happened with JFK. He was the "ice cream cone" who got "taken" by someone, but figuring out who did it is a big mystery.

2. Core Mental Models

  1. The Butterfly Effect: Small changes can lead to big effects. In the context of JFK's assassination, tiny details like a missed shot or a different route could have changed everything.
  2. Occam's Razor: The simplest explanation is often the best one. This helps cut through conspiracy theories and focus on the most plausible facts.
  3. Confirmation Bias: People often see what they want to see. Be aware of this when analyzing evidence to avoid jumping to conclusions based on preconceived ideas.

3. Must-Know Concepts

  1. Lee Harvey Oswald: The main guy accused of shooting JFK. Understanding his background and actions is crucial.
  2. The Warren Commission: A group that investigated the assassination and concluded that Oswald acted alone. Knowing their findings helps grasp the official story.
  3. The Magic Bullet Theory: A controversial theory that one bullet caused multiple injuries. This is a central debate in discussions about the assassination.
  4. The Grassy Knoll: A spot where many believe another shooter was located, challenging the lone gunman theory.

4. High-Impact Resources

  1. "JFK: The CIA, Vietnam, and the Plot to Assassinate John F. Kennedy" by L. Fletcher Prouty:

    • Why it's awesome: This book digs deep into the political and military context, offering a fresh perspective on possible motives.
    • Specific aspect: It explores the CIA's involvement and the potential impact of JFK's policies on Vietnam.

  2. "Rush to Judgment" by Mark Lane:

    • Why it's awesome: This classic critique of the Warren Commission's findings is a must-read for understanding opposing views.
    • Specific aspect: It challenges key evidence and witness testimonies, providing a balanced view.

  3. "The Men Who Killed Kennedy" (documentary series):

    • Why it's awesome: It's a comprehensive, engaging series that covers various conspiracy theories and evidence.
    • Specific aspect: It delves into the roles of different individuals and organizations, offering a broad perspective.

5. Get-Your-Hands-Dirty Tasks

  1. Create a Timeline: Map out the events leading up to and following the assassination. This helps visualize the sequence and connections.
  2. Analyze Primary Sources: Read original documents like the Warren Commission Report and witness statements. This hands-on approach ensures you're not just relying on secondary interpretations.
  3. Debate: Engage in a respectful debate with someone who holds a different belief about the assassination. This forces you to think critically and articulate your points clearly.

6. The Ultimate Test

Project: Write a concise, well-researched article arguing for or against the lone gunman theory. This project will test your understanding of the core concepts and mental models.

7. Flashcards for Rapid Recall

  1. Question: Who was Lee Harvey Oswald?

    • Answer: Lee Harvey Oswald was a former Marine and employee at the Texas School Book Depository who was accused of assassinating JFK.

  2. Question: What is the Warren Commission?

    • Answer: The Warren Commission was a group established by President Lyndon B. Johnson to investigate the assassination of JFK.

  3. Question: What is the Magic Bullet Theory?

    • Answer: The Magic Bullet Theory suggests that one bullet caused multiple injuries to JFK and Texas Governor John Connally.

  4. Question: What is the significance of the Grassy Knoll?

    • Answer: The Grassy Knoll is a spot in Dealey Plaza where some believe another shooter was located, challenging the lone gunman theory.

  5. Question: What does Occam's Razor mean in the context of JFK's assassination?

    • Answer: Occam's Razor means that the simplest explanation, often the lone gunman theory, is preferred unless evidence supports a more complex conspiracy.

8. Common Pitfalls

  1. Overreliance on Conspiracy Theories: Avoid getting too caught up in elaborate conspiracies without solid evidence. Stick to verifiable facts and logical explanations.
  2. Ignoring Context: Don't overlook the political and historical context leading up to the assassination. This can provide crucial insights into motives and actions.
  3. Selective Evidence: Don't cherry-pick evidence that supports only your beliefs. Consider all relevant information to form a balanced understanding.

Alright, that's your no-BS learning plan Now go out there and master Who killed JFK?!

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