Introduction
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was an iconic figure known for her elegance, intellect, and influence. As the wife of President John F. Kennedy, she served as First Lady of the United States from 1961 to 1963, leaving a lasting impact on American culture and the global perception of the U.S. Later, she married Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis, cementing her place as a symbol of class and sophistication. Her contributions to history, arts, and public service remain celebrated to this day.
Key Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jacqueline Lee Bouvier Kennedy Onassis |
| Date of Birth | July 28, 1929 |
| Place of Birth | Southampton, New York, USA |
| Zodiac Sign | Leo |
| Date of Death | May 19, 1994 |
| Place of Death | New York City, New York, USA |
| Education | Vassar College, George Washington University, Paris-Sorbonne University |
| Languages | English, French, Spanish, Italian |
| Occupation | Journalist, Editor, First Lady |
| Spouses | John F. Kennedy (m. 1953; d. 1963), Aristotle Onassis (m. 1968; d. 1975) |
| Children | Caroline Kennedy, John F. Kennedy Jr., Patrick Bouvier Kennedy (deceased) |
Career
Jacqueline Kennedy began her career as a journalist, working as the „Inquiring Camera Girl“ for the Washington Times-Herald. In this role, she combined photography and interviews, covering notable events such as President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s inauguration and Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation.
As First Lady, Jacqueline prioritized restoring the White House to its historical grandeur, overseeing extensive renovations and showcasing American culture. Her 1962 televised tour of the White House drew 56 million viewers and earned her an honorary Emmy Award. She also championed the arts, inviting writers, musicians, and scientists to state dinners and promoting cultural diplomacy on her travels abroad.
After the tragic assassination of President Kennedy, Jacqueline became a symbol of national mourning, famously associating her late husband’s presidency with the romanticized era of Camelot. Following her marriage to Aristotle Onassis, she largely retreated from public life but later returned to work as an editor for Viking Press and Doubleday, where she contributed to significant literary projects.
Personal Life
Born into a privileged family, Jacqueline was the daughter of a stockbroker and an equestrienne. Her childhood was marked by a love for literature, art, and equestrian pursuits, winning a national junior horsemanship competition at age 11. Jacqueline attended prestigious institutions, including Vassar College and George Washington University, and spent a transformative year studying in Paris, which deepened her love for European culture.
In 1953, Jacqueline married Senator John F. Kennedy, with whom she had three children: Caroline, John Jr., and Patrick (who died shortly after birth). Following Kennedy’s death in 1963, she married Aristotle Onassis in 1968, living a quieter life until his passing in 1975.
Notable Achievements
- Cultural Preservation: Restored the White House, transforming it into a historical and cultural museum.
- Televised Tour: Her 1962 White House tour was watched by 56 million people and won an honorary Emmy Award.
- Diplomatic Influence: Used her fluency in multiple languages and knowledge of foreign cultures to enhance U.S. diplomacy.
- Camelot Legacy: Popularized the metaphor of Camelot to define her husband’s administration.
- Literary Contributions: Edited significant works in her role at Viking Press and Doubleday.
Current Activities (Legacy)
Although Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis passed away in 1994, her legacy endures. She is remembered as one of the most admired First Ladies in U.S. history, renowned for her intelligence, poise, and cultural contributions. The eternal flame at her gravesite in Arlington National Cemetery symbolizes her enduring impact. Jacqueline’s life and style continue to inspire documentaries, books, and exhibitions, ensuring her place as an icon of American history.
