John F. Kennedy, or simply JFK, was the 35th President of the USA and a true legend. He served in the Second World War and went on to have a stellar political career. As president (beginning in 1961), he inspired the nation with his charisma and vision, famously promising to put Americans on the moon.

During the Cuban Missile Crisis, he navigated the brink of nuclear war – but was able to avert catastrophe.

His most famous quote? “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” His declaration, “Ich bin ein Berliner” was equally iconic. On June 26, 1963, he visited West Berlin and delivered his memorable speech in front of Schöneberg City Hall, with Willy Brandt – the city’s mayor – present. In Brandt’s office, JFK eagerly practiced the famous phrase, which was intended to symbolize US solidarity with Berliners enduring the city’s division and facing the pressures of communism.

A copy of the speech is on display at the Federal Chancellery in Berlin. It was presented as a state gift US President Barack Obama to German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Tragically, JFK was assassinated in Dallas in 1963. His death triggered shockwaves and conspiracy theories surrounding his death are still debated today. Despite his abbreviated tenure in office, JFK remains a symbol of hope and change.

Amusingly, misconceptions surrounding “Berliner Pfannkuchen” persist and tourists are often misled when they hear “Ich bin ein Berliner”. Although the statement is grammatically correct, some believe JFK was referring to himself as a jelly doughnut, as “Berliners” are well-known pastries in Berlin. While there is no evidence of the sentiment amusing Berliners at the time, the phrase continues to evoke humor amongst Americans saying “I am a jelly doughnut.”

These pastries, also known as doughnuts, are a popular sweet yeast treats from Germany. They are made using a yeast dough that is fried in oil and traditionally filled with jam. Nowadays, there are many filling variations, including plum jam, vanilla cream, and eggnog. Berlin Pfannkuchen are especially popular at Carnival and New Year’s Eve celebrations, where you’ll often find them sprinkled with powdered sugar or covered in icing.