A family destined for greatness, cursed by shadows.
Nine children of privilege, thrust into the maelstrom of American politics.
This is the saga of the Kennedys, where dynastic aspirations battled personal demons, where charisma captivated the nation while tragedy lurked at every turn.
From John F. Kennedy’s meteoric rise to Ted’s struggle to escape his brother’s ghost, theirs is a story that continues to enthrall and mystify.
Prepare to unravel the intricate tapestry of their lives, where ambition danced with grief, and legacies were forged in the crucible of public scrutiny and private torment.
Who are the 9 Kennedy siblings?
The Kennedy family is well-known for its large and influential brood, but there were not 9 Kennedy siblings, but 9 children born to Joseph P.
Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy:
Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. (1915-1944) – Eldest son, U.S. Navy pilot who died in WWII.
John F. Kennedy (1917-1963) – 35th President of the United States, assassinated in office.
Rosemary Kennedy (1918-2005) – Eldest daughter, who underwent a controversial lobotomy at a young age.
Kathleen Kennedy (1920-1948) – Nicknamed “Kick,” died in a plane crash.
Eunice Kennedy Shriver (1921-2009) – Special Olympics Founder, married Sargent Shriver.
Pat Kennedy Lawford (1924-2006) – Actress and socialite, married Peter Lawford.
Jean Kennedy Smith (1928-present) – U.S. Ambassador to Ireland, married Stephen E. Smith.
Edward M. Kennedy (1932-2009) – Long-serving U.S. Senator, youngest surviving son of Joseph and Rose.
How is Ted Kennedy related to John Kennedy?
Ted Kennedy was the younger brother of John F. Kennedy by two years.
They were both sons of Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy, making them full siblings.
Here’s a breakdown of their relationship:
- Birth Order:
- John F. Kennedy: Born in 1917
- Ted Kennedy: Born in 1932
- Family Roles:
- John F. Kennedy: The eldest son, often groomed for political life.
- Ted Kennedy: The younger brother, expected to live in John’s shadow but eventually established his political career.
- Political Careers:
- John F. Kennedy: 35th President of the United States, tragically assassinated in office.
- Ted Kennedy: Long-serving U.S. Senator from Massachusetts, served for nearly 47 years and became a powerful figure in Democratic politics.
- Legacy:
- John F. Kennedy: Remembered for his charisma, vision, and contributions to civil rights and the Cold War.
- Ted Kennedy: Remembered for his liberal activism, healthcare advocacy, and championing social justice causes.
Are Ted Kennedy’s Siblings alive?
As of today, October 26, 2023, only one of Ted Kennedy’s siblings is still alive:
Jean Kennedy Smith.
- John F. Kennedy: Assassinated in 1963.
- Rosemary Kennedy: Passed away in 2005.
- Kathleen Kennedy: Died in a plane crash in 1948.
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver: Died in 2009.
- Pat Kennedy Lawford: Died in 2006.
- Edward M. Kennedy (Ted Kennedy): Died in 2009.
- Jean Kennedy Smith: Still alive, born in 1928.
Jean Kennedy Smith, the youngest surviving sibling, served as the U.S. Ambassador to Ireland from 1993 to 1998 and actively advocated for human rights and social justice causes.
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Who is the longest-living Kennedy?
The longest-living Kennedy was Jean Kennedy Smith, who was born on May 20, 1928.
Sadly, she passed away on June 17, 2020, at the age of 92.
She was the last surviving sibling of the nine children born to Joseph P.
Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy, including President John F. Kennedy and Senator Ted Kennedy.
Jean lived a long and impactful life, serving as the U.S. Ambassador to Ireland from 1993 to 1998 and remaining an active advocate for human rights and social justice causes until her passing.
Therefore, as of today, October 26, 2023, the title of longest-living Kennedy no longer belongs to anyone, as Jean was the last surviving member of her generation.
However, the Kennedy family legacy continues through numerous descendants involved in various fields, including politics, law, activism, and the arts.
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How did the Kennedys make their money?
The Kennedy family amassed their wealth through a variety of means over several generations, with each member contributing their own skills and strategies:
Early Roots:
Joseph P. Kennedy Sr.: The patriarch played a pivotal role.
He started by making his fortune in Wall Street before moving to Hollywood, where he financed films and built a media empire. He also profited from lucrative liquor distribution deals during Prohibition.
Real Estate: The Kennedys invested heavily in real estate, acquiring compounds in Hyannis Port, Palm Beach, and other desirable locations.
These properties became valuable assets and symbols of family wealth.
Political Influence:
Leveraging Power: While holding political office, several Kennedys strategically used their influence to benefit their financial interests.
This sometimes involved securing favorable legislation or engaging in profitable business partnerships.
Public Endorsements: Their celebrity status and political connections allowed them to secure lucrative endorsements and lucrative speaking engagements.
