Step into the glamorous world of the White House during John F. Kennedy’s presidency and get to know his iconic first lady – Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis. Her impeccable style, poise, and grace captivated America and left an indelible mark on history. Join us as we take a deep dive into her fascinating life from her early years to her untimely death, uncovering lesser-known facts about this cultural icon along the way.
Jacqueline Kennedy’s Life Before the White House
Jacqueline Kennedy was born on July 28, 1929, into a wealthy and well-connected family in Southampton, New York. She was educated at private schools in New York City and Newport, Rhode Island, before attending Vassar College and the George Washington University School of Government.
In 1951, she married John F. Kennedy, then a U.S. congressman from Massachusetts. The couple moved to Virginia, where they had two children: Caroline (born 1957) and John Jr. (born 1960).
As her husband’s political career took off, Jackie became increasingly involved in his campaigns and became an iconic figure in American politics. In 1961, JFK was elected president, making Jackie the first lady of the United States.
During her time as first lady, Jackie was widely admired for her style and grace. She also made headlines for her tragedy when her husband was assassinated in 1963. After JFK’s death, Jackie remained active in public life and continued to be a respected figure in American culture until her own death in 1994.
Time as First Lady
As First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy was known for her style and grace. She was also known for her love of the arts and culture. During her time as First Lady, she worked hard to promote the arts and humanities. She also worked to preserve historic sites and buildings. Mrs. Kennedy was an advocate for the environment and conservation. She also worked to improve the lives of children and families.
Jacqueline Kennedy was also a prominent political figure. She was an active campaigner for her husband, President John F. Kennedy.
In addition to her work as First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy also had an active social life. She often hosted parties and events for her friends and family members at the White House. She was also known for her enthusiasm for fashion, often wearing stylish clothes when attending public events or making appearances with her husband.
Death of Her Husband
On November 22, 1963, Jackie Kennedy’s life changed forever when her husband, President John F. Kennedy, was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. Jackie was riding in the presidential motorcade with her husband when he was shot and she famously cradled his head in her lap as he died. The assassination of JFK had a profound effect on Jackie and the nation. Jackie became a symbol of strength and grace in the face of tragedy and helped to heal a grieving nation.
In the aftermath of JFK’s death, Jackie chose to return to the White House rather than moving out as many suggested she should. She oversaw the redecoration of the White House in honor of her husband’s memory and became a noted fashion icon during this time. Jackie also worked tirelessly to establish the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, which opened in 1979.
After leaving the White House, Jackie married Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. The couple moved to Greece and lived a relatively private life until Onassis’ death in 1975. Jackie returned to the United States after Aristotle’s death and continued her work with the JFK Library. She also wrote two books about her life with JFK, one of which was turned into a successful film starring Natalie Portman.
Life After the White House
After leaving the White House, Jackie Kennedy moved to New York City with her children. She later married Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. From then on, she was known as Jackie O. Jackie O lived a relatively quiet life out of the public eye until her death in 1994.
Jackie Kennedy lived an extraordinary life that was full of both joy and tragedy. She will be remembered as one of America’s most iconic first ladies.