How technology helped shed light on John F. Kennedy’s assassination

It was on November 22, 1963, precisely 61 years ago, that President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. Over the decades, more or less wild theories have continued to emerge about what happened. Modern technology has helped clarify some mysteries.

John F. Kennedy... technology reconstructs the fateful day

O assassination of John F. Kennedy, 35th president of the United States, on November 22, 1963in Dallas, Texas, remains one of the most debated and controversial events in modern history.

Although initial investigations pointed to Lee Harvey Oswald as solely responsible for the crime, several conspiracy theories have emerged over the years, fueling doubts about what really happened on that fateful day.

However, the evolution of technology over the decades has helped to clarify some aspects of this case, allowing for more detailed analyzes of crucial evidence.

Advanced ballistic and digital analysis

One of the key areas where technology has had a significant impact is ballistics. In 1963, the resources available to investigate bullet paths were limited, which led to controversial interpretations. Decades later, advances in 3D modeling and digital simulations have made it possible to recreate the crime scene with an unprecedented level of detail.

Researchers used forensic reconstruction software to map the path of the bullets that hit Kennedy and Texas Governor John Connally, who was sitting in the front seat of the presidential car.

These simulations confirmed the impossibility of the "magic bullet" theory, according to which a single bullet would have caused multiple wounds to both men. Modern analyzes suggest that the path described by the Warren Commission, which investigated the case, is not consistent with the physical evidence.

Zapruder film analysis

The “film Zapruder”, an amateur recording of the murder captured by Abraham Zapruder, became one of the most important pieces of evidence in the case. At the time, analyzes were limited by recording quality and lack of appropriate tools.

With advances in image processing technology, investigators were able to digitize and enhance the film, allowing for a more detailed analysis of the events.

Digital stabilization of the video and increased resolution helped identify the exact moment of the shots and assess Kennedy's physical reaction. Additionally, modern image analysis techniques have made it possible to synchronize the Zapruder film with other footage and photographs taken at the scene, creating a more cohesive narrative about what occurred at Dealey Plaza.

Audio reconstruction

Another significant technological advance was the analysis of the audio captured by the microphone of a police motorcycle present at the scene. For decades, it was believed that this recording contained gunshot sounds, which could help determine the number of shots fired and the location of the shooter. With the help of modern acoustic analysis technologies, scientists have been able to isolate ambient sounds and assess their origin.

Although some analyzes have suggested the possibility of multiple shooters, more recent studies indicate that the sounds analyzed may not have been actual gunshots, but rather background noises or echoes. This controversy continues to fuel the debate over whether Oswald acted alone or whether there was a larger conspiracy.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have been applied to Kennedy's case, allowing for a deeper review of the available evidence. These technologies were used to analyze large volumes of documents declassified by the US government, helping to identify patterns, connections and possible contradictions in previously released information.

Furthermore, AI has been employed to simulate alternative scenariostesting the viability of different conspiracy theories. These simulations help assess the likelihood of other shooters or a larger conspiracy, offering additional insights into the case.

Thanks to digital platforms, investigators and historians have been able to examine thousands of pages of reports, memos and testimonies released by the US government. This process has helped to clarify some questions about the political and social context of the time, as well as to examine the actions of the CIA, the FBI and other government entities involved in the investigation.

Although technology has not resolved all questions related to the assassination of John F. Kennedy, it has helped to clarify many aspects of this complex case.

Despite this, the case continues to be the subject of intense debate and public fascination, with new theories emerging as technology evolves. Kennedy's legacy and the mystery surrounding his death continue to inspire investigation and reflection.

Source: pplware.sapo.pt