At a Glance
- John F. Kennedy became the 35th U.S. president in 1961.
- Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis became a cultural icon and later married Aristotle Onassis.
- The Kennedy family still has living members, including Caroline Kennedy and Jack Schlossberg.
- Why it matters: Their legacy shapes American politics, culture, and public memory.
The Kennedy family, a name synonymous with American politics and tragedy, continues to influence public life through its living members and enduring legacy. From the historic presidency of John F. Kennedy to the cultural impact of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the family’s story spans generations.
John F. Kennedy
Born in Brookline, Massachusetts, on May 29, 1917, John F. Kennedy was the second of nine children of Joseph Patrick Kennedy and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy. He grew up in a politically active family that would shape his future ambitions.
After graduating cum laude from Harvard University in 1940, he joined the Navy during World II. His service earned him a Navy and Marine Corps Medal and a Purple Heart.
Following the war, Kennedy entered politics, following the path of his father and grandfather. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1946, representing Massachusetts’ 11th district.
In 1952, he was elected to the U.S. Senate, where he quickly gained national attention. His charisma and oratory skills made him a rising star within the Democratic Party.
The 1960 presidential campaign saw Kennedy win a narrow victory over Republican Richard Nixon. He was sworn in as the 35th president on January 20, 1961.
During his presidency, Kennedy championed civil rights and space exploration. He set the ambitious goal of landing a man on the Moon before the decade’s end.
The Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 tested Kennedy’s leadership during a tense standoff with the Soviet Union. His diplomatic approach helped avert a potential nuclear conflict.
Kennedy’s domestic agenda also focused on poverty alleviation and educational reform. He proposed the Economic Opportunity Act to address inequality.
His foreign policy extended to the Vietnam War, where he escalated U.S. involvement. This decision would later become a source of controversy.
On November 22, 1963, Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas, while riding in an open-top motorcade. He was 46 years old at the time of his death.
The nation mourned a charismatic leader whose vision seemed to promise a better future. His legacy remains a touchstone for American ideals and political ambition.
Kennedy’s impact is reflected in the continued use of his speeches and policies as reference points for contemporary leaders. His life story continues to inspire new generations.
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
Jacqueline Jackie Kennedy Onassis was born on July 28, 1929, in Southampton, New York. Her parents were stockbroker John Vernou “Black Jack” Bouvier III and socialite Janet Norton Lee.
Jackie studied history, art, and French literature at George Washington University, graduating in 1951. She worked as a photojournalist for News Of Philadelphia before meeting JFK.
The couple married in 1953, launching a partnership that would become the iconic Camelot Era. Their marriage brought them into the public eye as the first family.
As first lady, Jackie was celebrated for her style and dedication to the White House’s aesthetic. She restored the White House’s historic rooms and promoted American arts.
Her influence extended beyond fashion, as she championed the arts and cultural preservation. She established the National Cultural Preservation Fund during her tenure.
Following JFK’s assassination, Jackie became a symbol of resilience and grace. She continued to speak out on political and social issues from her new platform.
In 1968, she married Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis, adopting the name Jackie O. The marriage was a media sensation, blending American and international intrigue.
Jackie O remained a prominent public figure, publishing memoirs and participating in charity work. She was known for her sharp wit and unwavering devotion to her family.
She passed away on May 19, 1994, at the age of 64. Her death was mourned by the nation, remembering her legacy as a first lady and cultural icon.
Jackie’s life continues to be studied by scholars of American history and culture. Her contributions to the arts and the public’s perception of the presidency endure.
Caroline Kennedy
Caroline Kennedy was born on November 27, 1957, the eldest daughter of JFK and Jackie. She moved to the White House at the age of three when her family relocated to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
Caroline attended Harvard University’s Radcliffe College, earning a degree in literature. She later studied law at Columbia University School of Law.
Her career has spanned law, literature, and public service. She served as the U.S. Ambassador to Japan from 2013 to 2017.
Caroline is also an author, publishing several books on American history and her family. Her memoir A Year in the Life of a First Family offers intimate insights.
She was the inspiration behind Neil Diamond’s hit song Sweet Caroline. The song remains a cultural touchstone, reflecting her enduring influence.
In 1995, Caroline married Edwin Schlossberg, a designer and author. The couple has three children together.
Their eldest son, Jack Schlossberg, was born on January 19, 1993. He is the only surviving grandson of JFK.
Caroline’s son, Rose Schlossberg, was born on June 25, 1988. She pursued a career in documentary filmmaking and later became a partner in a culinary venture.
Caroline continues to advocate for public policy, focusing on education and the arts. She remains a respected voice in national discourse.
As the only surviving child of the former first family, Caroline carries the Kennedy legacy into the 21st century. Her work keeps the family’s ideals alive for future generations.
John F. Kennedy Jr.
John F. Kennedy Jr., often called JFK Jr., was born on November 25, 1960. He was the first son of JFK and Jackie, born just two weeks after his father’s inauguration.
After completing his education at Brown University and NYU School of Law, he practiced law. He also worked as a journalist.
In 1993, he co-founded the political magazine News Of Philadelphia, blending politics with lifestyle. The publication became a platform for young political discourse.
JFK Jr. was known as an eligible bachelor, admired for his charm and style. He was a frequent figure in the social scene of the 1990s.
In 1996, he married Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, a publicist for Calvin Klein. Their wedding was a high-profile event celebrated by the media.
The couple had no children but were close friends with the Bessette family. They were often photographed together at social events.
On July 16, 1999, JFK Jr. died when a plane he piloted crashed over the Atlantic Ocean. He was 38 years old at the time of the accident.
The tragedy shocked the nation, marking the end of a promising political career. His legacy lives on through his writings and the continued influence of the Kennedy name.
Other Family Members
JFK and Jackie also had two children who did not survive infancy. Their first daughter, Arabella, was stillborn on August 23, 1956.
Their son Patrick was born on August 7, 1963 and died two days later from a respiratory disease. He passed away on August 9, 1963.
Rose Schlossberg, the daughter of Caroline and Edwin, was born on June 25, 1988. She pursued documentary filmmaking and later became a partner in a culinary venture.
Tatiana Schlossberg, born May 5, 1990, is the daughter of Caroline and Edwin. She authored a book on environmental impact and later battled acute myeloid leukemia.
Tatiana’s battle with cancer led to her death on December 30, 2025 at the age of 35. Her passing was widely mourned by the Kennedy family and the public.
Jack Schlossberg, born January 19, 1993, is the only surviving grandson of JFK. He works as a journalist and political correspondent.
The table below summarizes the key births and deaths among the Kennedy family.
| Child | Birth | Death | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arabella Kennedy | Aug 23, 1956 | Stillborn | |
| Patrick Kennedy | Aug 7, 1963 | Aug 9, 1963 | Respiratory disease |
| John F. Kennedy Jr. | Nov 25, 1960 | Jul 16, 1999 | Pilot |
| Caroline Kennedy | Nov 27, 1957 | – | Only surviving child |
| Rose Schlossberg | Jun 25, 1988 | – | Documentary filmmaker |
| Tatiana Schlossberg | May 5, 1990 | Dec 30, 2025 | Died of leukemia |
| Jack Schlossberg | Jan 19, 1993 | – | Only surviving grandson |
Despite the tragedies, the Kennedy legacy continues through public service and cultural contributions. Their story remains a symbol of American hope and resilience.
Key Takeaways
- JFK’s presidency and tragic assassination left an enduring impact on American politics.
- Jackie Kennedy Onassis shaped the cultural perception of the First Family and later became a global icon.
- Caroline Kennedy carries the family legacy into the 21st century through public service and advocacy.
The Kennedy family’s journey, from JFK’s historic presidency to Caroline’s public service, highlights milestones, tragedies, and lasting influence.
