Legenda Urbanae Crusti

Did you know that the story we always tell of Kennedy giving a speech in Berlin and accidentally referring to himself as a ‘jelly doughnut’ is an urban legend?

1. There is nothing grammatically incorrect with the statement “Ich bin ein Berliner.”
2. The jelly filled pastry called “Berliners” are not even referred to as such in Berlin.
3. This legend that Kennedy made a fool of himself is almost completely unknown here in Germany.

Kennedy made this statement on June 26, 1963, and it was understood exactly as it was intended, as a statement of fraternity, reminding the Berliners who were, at that time, in a difficult position, that they were not alone. It is still known as an extremely proud moment here, not one of bumbling grammatical errors.

Please do me a favor, and forward this to anyone you know. The “Ich bin ein Berliner” story is one that especially intellectuals love to tell. We should save our brethren from their potential embarrassment. Oder?