Abraham Zapruder Quotes, a Ukrainian-born American clothing manufacturer, became an accidental witness to history when he filmed the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas on November 22, 1963. Using his Bell & Howell 8mm camera, Zapruder captured the 26-second Zapruder Film, a haunting record of a national tragedy that fueled decades of debate. A quiet man devastated by what he saw, his raw, emotional words reflect the weight of that moment.
These 15 quotes—sourced from his Warren Commission testimony, interviews, and documented statements—center on his anguished recollection, “I heard a shot, and he slumped to the side, like this,” alongside insights on witnessing history and its lasting impact, offering a poignant perspective to honor his unintended legacy.
15 Abraham Zapruder Quotes
- “I heard a shot, and he slumped to the side, like this.” (WFAA-TV Interview, November 22, 1963)
- “Then I heard another shot which hit him right in the head, over here, and his head practically opened up.” (Warren Commission Testimony, July 22, 1964)
- “They killed him! They killed him!” (Statement to Bystanders, Dealey Plaza, November 22, 1963)
- “It was terrible. I saw his head come off.” (Conversation with Business Partner, November 22, 1963)
- “I started yelling, ‘They killed him, they killed him.’” (Warren Commission Testimony, July 22, 1964)
- “I was on the abutment.” (Warren Commission Testimony, July 22, 1964)
- “He leaned about the same way in falling towards Jacqueline, forward, down towards the bottom of the car.” (Warren Commission Testimony, July 22, 1964)
- “I got off the abutment and walked towards my office.” (Warren Commission Testimony, July 22, 1964)
- “Yes, sir, a patrol car came and took me down to a station.” (Warren Commission Testimony, July 22, 1964)
- “They hadn’t got the facilities to develop colored film.” (Warren Commission Testimony, July 22, 1964)
- “I was in the processing room watching them actually process the film.” (Warren Commission Testimony, July 22, 1964)
- “I couldn’t tell if any frames were removed.” (Warren Commission Testimony, July 22, 1964)
- “I’m not a ballistics expert, but I believe that if there were shots that come from my right ear, I would hear a different sound.” (CBS: The Warren Report Interview, 1964)
- “I’m ashamed of myself.” (Warren Commission Testimony, July 22, 1964)
- “No, he’s dead.” (Phone Call to Son, Henry Zapruder, November 22, 1963)
Abraham Zapruder’s quotes are a raw, heartfelt echo of a moment that shook the world, inspiring historians, storytellers, and everyday folks to grapple with the weight of history and truth. His words remind us of the power of witnessing, urging us to seek clarity in chaos. Which one hits you hardest or sparks a thought? Drop it in the comments and keep Zapruder’s haunting legacy alive!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
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