The Early Years
The Early Years** This section covers Oswald’s childhood and formative years, including his birth in New Orleans in 1939, his upbringing in various locations, and his early education. It examines his family background, including the death of his mother and the instability of his childhood, which may have contributed to psychological factors influencing his later actions. The section details his early exposure to various influences and the circumstances that shaped his character development.
New York City
New York City** This section documents Oswald’s time living in New York City, where he resided with various family members and developed early political awareness. It examines his employment experiences, social interactions, and the impact of his time in the city on his emerging worldview. The section also covers any significant events or associations during this period that may have influenced his subsequent radicalization.
Return to New Orleans and Joining the Marine Corps
Return to New Orleans and Joining the Marine Corps** This section covers Oswald’s return to his birthplace of New Orleans and his decision to join the United States Marine Corps. It details his military training, service record, and experiences during his time in the Marines. The section examines his conduct as a Marine, his exposure to radar and weapons training, and his eventual discharge from service, which provided him with skills and discipline that would later prove significant.
Interest in Marxism
Interest in Marxism** This section traces the development of Oswald’s political ideology, particularly his attraction to Marxist and communist philosophy. It examines when and how he became interested in these ideas, what texts and influences shaped his thinking, and how this ideology evolved over time. The section explores the intellectual foundations that would later drive his defection to the Soviet Union and his ongoing political activities.
Defection to the Soviet Union
Defection to the Soviet Union** This section documents Oswald’s defection to the Soviet Union in 1959, including his journey, arrival, and experiences in the USSR. It examines his interactions with Soviet authorities, his attempts to gain citizenship, and his life in Minsk. The section also covers the circumstances of his eventual decision to return to the United States and what this experience revealed about his character and motivations.
Return to the United States
Return to the United States** This section covers Oswald’s readmission to the United States in 1962 after his defection to the Soviet Union. It examines how American authorities handled his return, his debriefing by the FBI, and his activities following his readmission. The section details his resettlement, movements between various cities, and the surveillance placed on him by federal agencies, providing context for his activities leading up to the assassination.
Personal Relations
Personal Relations** This section examines Oswald’s personal relationships, including his interactions with family members, friends, and acquaintances. It documents his social patterns, his ability to form connections, and the nature of his relationships with various individuals. The section provides insight into his personality and character through the accounts of those who knew him during various periods of his life.
Employment
Employment** This section covers Oswald’s various employment activities, including his jobs in different cities and industries. It examines his work history, job performance, and any significance to be drawn from his employment patterns. The section details his time working at the Texas School Book Depository, which became significant as his place of employment on November 22, 1963.
Attack on General Walker
Attack on General Walker** This section documents Oswald’s attempt to assassinate General Edwin Walker in April 1963. It examines the circumstances of this attack, including Oswald’s motivations, the method employed, and the aftermath. This incident is considered significant as it demonstrates Oswald’s willingness to engage in political violence and provides insight into his targeting of authority figures, foreshadowing the assassination of President Kennedy.
Political Activities
Political Activities** This section covers Oswald’s political activities during the years leading up to the assassination, including his involvement with pro-Castro organizations, the Fair Play for Cuba Committee, and other political groups. It examines his distribution of leaflets, his public statements, and his efforts to promote communist and pro-revolutionary causes. The section details his ideological development and activities in New Orleans and other locations.
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