What was the context of JFK's inaugural address?

The most dominant issue in the world was the Cold War at
the time of President Kennedy's inaugural address.  This took on different forms around
the world, but the battle for Communist control and the control of the West set the
stage for Kennedy's arrival on the world stage.  In his Inaugural Address, President
Kennedy called for a renewed sense of optimism in America's role in this battle.  He
appealed to a youthful vigor in "answering the call" of the demands placed on America. 
President Kennedy channeled American zeal through his Inaugural Address in allowing
individuals to see their own role in this new conception, where the stakes were high,
but equal to the task of American Identity.  With the advent of television, more
Americans were able to feel that Kennedy was speaking "to them," making his words that
sought to inspire and "call to action" more meaningful and
relevant.