Report of the President's Commission on the Assassination of President John F. Kennedy

Circumstances Surrounding the Assassination

This section details the immediate events on November 22, 1963, including the motorcade’s arrival in Dallas, the location of the presidential limousine, and the shots fired that resulted in Kennedy’s fatal injury.

Selection of Motorcade Route

An analysis of the route chosen for the presidential motorcade is presented, explaining the considerations that led to the selection of Dealey Plaza and the impact of route changes on the security posture.

Oswald’s Presence in the Depository Building

The chapter reviews Lee Harvey Oswald’s presence in the Texas School Book Depository, his work schedule, and his interactions with coworkers on the day of the assassination.

Bringing Rifle Into Building

Evidence concerning how Oswald allegedly brought a rifle into the Depository building is examined, including testimony about his purchases, transportation methods, and storage of the weapon.

Accomplices at the Scene of the Assassination

This section investigates whether any accomplices assisted Oswald at the scene, reviewing witness statements, physical evidence, and investigative findings to determine possible collaboration.

Oswald’s Escape

The circumstances of Oswald’s escape from the Depository after the assassination are explored, covering his departure from the building, his movements through Dallas, and the timeline leading to his arrest.

Background of Lee Harvey Oswald

A biographical overview of Lee Harvey Oswald provides context for his early life, education, military service, and ideological development prior to the assassination.

Residence in the Soviet Union

The chapter examines Oswald’s stay in the Soviet Union, his defection attempt, his life in Minsk, and his interactions with Soviet officials, as well as the motivations behind his return to the United States.

Associations in the Dallas-Fort Worth Community

Oswald’s social and professional connections in the Dallas‑Fort Worth area are reviewed, including his employment at the Depository, his membership in local organizations, and any reported contacts with extremist groups.

Political Activities Upon Return to the United States

Political activities undertaken by Oswald after his return to the United States are analyzed, focusing on his public speeches, leaflet distribution, and efforts related to pro‑Cuban and Marxist causes.

Contacts With the Cuban and Soviet Embassies in Mexico City and the Soviet Embassy in Washington, D.C.

This section documents Oswald’s contacts with the Cuban and Soviet embassies in Mexico City and the Soviet Embassy in Washington, D.C., including visa applications, interview records, and the content of his communications.

Investigation of Other Activities

Investigators explored other alleged activities of Oswald, such as any involvement in espionage, sabotage, or plotting against government officials, and the evidence supporting or refuting those claims.

Oswald Was Not an Agent for the U.S. Government

The report concludes that no credible evidence indicates Oswald acted as an agent for any United States government agency, examining intelligence files, testimony, and administrative records.

Oswald’s Finances

An examination of Oswald’s financial situation is presented, detailing his income, expenses, bank accounts, and any unusual financial transactions that might shed light on his motives.

Possible Conspiracy Involving Jack Ruby

Possible conspiratorial links involving Jack Ruby are investigated, reviewing the timing of his actions, his relationship to Oswald, and any indicators of coordinated effort.

Ruby’s Activities From November 21 to November 24, 1963

Ruby’s movements and actions between November 21 and November 24, 1963, are traced, including his whereabouts, communications, and behavior leading up to the killing of Oswald.

Ruby and Oswald Were Not Acquainted

Evidence is presented to demonstrate that Ruby and Oswald had no prior personal acquaintance, based on witness testimony, investigative records, and biographical information.

Ruby’s Background and Associations

The background of Jack Ruby is explored, encompassing his early life, criminal history, business interests, and associations within the Dallas nightlife and organized‑crime circles.

Conclusion

The chapter concludes with a synthesis of findings, summarizing the investigative conclusions regarding the existence of a broader conspiracy, the credibility of the lone‑assassin theory, and recommendations for further inquiry.

CHAPITRE VII. LEE HARVEY OSWALD: BACKGROUND AND POSSIBLE MOTIVES 375

CHAPTER VII. LEE HARVEY OSWALD: BACKGROUND AND POSSIBLE MOTIVES** This chapter examines the background, personal history, and potential motives of Lee Harvey Oswald, the assassin of President John F. Kennedy. The investigation covers his early life, military service, ideological development, international travels, personal relationships, and activities in Dallas leading up to the assassination. The Commission sought to understand what factors might have led Oswald to commit this act and whether he acted alone or as part of a broader conspiracy.