In the summer of 1963, as the political climate simmered with tension, Lee Harvey Oswald, the man who was later accused of the the assassin of President John F. Kennedy, found himself in the spotlight in his hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. This intriguing prelude to the tragic events of November 22 unfolded through Oswald's twice-prominent presence on local New Orleans radio programs. These historical recordings feature Oswald's appearances on New Orleans radio station WDSU. The first broadcast occurred on August 17, 1963, followed by a second airing just four days later on August 21, 1963. These dates, unbeknownst to many at the time, marked a mere three months before Oswald's infamous alleged act that would change the course of American history.
Remarkably composed during these radio interviews, Oswald engaged in articulate discussions on pressing political matters, predominantly centering around the strained relations between the United States and Cuba. At the forefront was Oswald's involvement as the self-styled "secretary" of the New Orleans chapter of the "Fair Play For Cuba Committee." Intriguingly, in reality, this chapter was a solitary entity, with Oswald standing as its sole member, shedding light on his reluctance to unveil any details about fellow members.
These two long suppressed radio programs serve as a captivating window into the thoughts that occupied the mind of President Kennedy's possible assassin during the months leading up to that ominous November day in Dallas. Oswald's articulate commentary on the intricate web of political dynamics adds a layer of complexity to the narrative surrounding the events of 1963. As history unfolded, these recordings became poignant important artifacts, offering a rare glimpse into the enigmatic figure who would forever be linked to one of the most consequential moments in American history.