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The U.S. government has released over 10,000 pages of documents related to the 1968 assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy. This release, initiated by an executive order from President Donald Trump, aims to enhance transparency and provide the public with deeper insights into this pivotal historical event.
Background: The Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy
On June 5, 1968, Senator Robert F. Kennedy was fatally shot at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles shortly after delivering a victory speech following his win in the California Democratic primary. The assassin, Sirhan Sirhan, a 24-year-old Palestinian, was apprehended at the scene and later convicted of first-degree murder. Sirhan cited Kennedy's support for Israel during the 1967 Six-Day War as his motive.
Contents of the Declassified Documents
The newly released documents, now available through the National Archives, include:
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Handwritten Notes by Sirhan Sirhan: Among these is a note stating, “RFK must be disposed of like his brother was,” referencing the earlier assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
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Interviews with Acquaintances: The files contain interviews with individuals who knew Sirhan, offering varied perspectives on his personality and possible motivations.
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Investigative Reports: Detailed accounts from the original investigation, shedding light on the events surrounding the assassination.
These documents provide a more comprehensive understanding of the circumstances leading up to and following the assassination.
Reactions to the Release
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the senator’s son and current U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, praised the release, stating that it is a necessary step toward restoring trust in the American government. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard also supported the disclosure, emphasizing its role in shedding light on historical investigations.
Accessing the Documents
The declassified files are accessible through the National Archives' official website. This release is part of a broader initiative to make records concerning significant historical events more accessible to the public.
