John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, remains an iconic figure in American history. While much is known about his presidency, his early life and family background are equally compelling. Born into a large and ambitious family, John F. Kennedy was one of nine children. Understanding his siblings provides valuable insight into the forces that shaped his life and career. This article delves into the lives of John F. Kennedy’s siblings, exploring their individual paths and the collective Kennedy family dynamic.
Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy, the matriarch of this remarkable family, meticulously documented the early years of her children. For each of her nine offspring, she kept detailed notecards, recording milestones from doctor’s visits to shoe sizes. The second child on Rose’s notecard was John Fitzgerald Kennedy, born on May 29, 1917, in Brookline, Massachusetts. He was named after his maternal grandfather, John Francis Fitzgerald, a prominent Boston Mayor nicknamed “Honey Fitz.” Affectionately, the family soon began calling him Jack. Even as a baby, Jack’s health was a concern. Rose’s notes detailed his childhood illnesses, including whooping cough, measles, and chickenpox, foreshadowing the health challenges he would face throughout his life.
The Kennedy siblings in Hyannis Port, 1928: From left to right, Jean, Robert, Patricia, Eunice, Kathleen, Rosemary, John F. Kennedy (Jack), and Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. (Joe Jr.).
In total, Rose and Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. raised nine children: four sons and five daughters. These siblings, each unique and driven, played significant roles in American society and politics. Let’s explore each of them in more detail:
The Eldest Sons: Joe Jr. and Jack
Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., the eldest son, was born in 1915. From a young age, Joe Jr. embodied the Kennedy ambition and was widely seen as the family’s political star. He was athletic, charismatic, and determined to make a mark. His father, Joseph P. Kennedy Sr., harbored significant political aspirations for his sons, and Joe Jr. seemed destined for greatness. He attended Harvard University and, like his father, aimed for a career in public service. Tragically, Joe Jr.’s life was cut short during World War II. As a pilot in the Navy, he participated in a highly dangerous mission in 1944 and was killed when his plane exploded over England. His death profoundly impacted the Kennedy family, particularly his younger brother, Jack.
John F. Kennedy, or Jack, the second son, was born two years after Joe Jr. While also intelligent and capable, Jack was often perceived as less driven and less healthy than his older brother. Childhood illnesses weakened his constitution, and he suffered from back problems throughout his life, exacerbated by a serious bout of scarlet fever at a young age. Despite these health challenges, Jack possessed a sharp intellect, a charming personality, and a deep interest in history and politics. While Joe Jr. was the expected political heir, his untimely death thrust Jack into the spotlight. Initially, Jack considered careers in teaching or writing. However, influenced by his father and the family’s sense of duty, he entered politics, ultimately exceeding all expectations.
Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. with his eldest sons, Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. and John F. Kennedy, enjoying time together in Palm Beach, Florida, in 1931.
The Kennedy Sisters: Rosemary, Kathleen, Eunice, Patricia, and Jean
The five Kennedy sisters, while less publicly known than their brothers, were remarkable women in their own right, navigating societal expectations and contributing to their family’s legacy.
Rosemary Kennedy, the eldest daughter, was born in 1918. Rosemary faced developmental challenges from a young age. While the exact nature of her condition remains debated, it is clear she had intellectual disabilities. In a tragic decision, when Rosemary was 23, her father authorized a prefrontal lobotomy, a procedure then considered a potential treatment for mental illness. The lobotomy, however, drastically worsened Rosemary’s condition, leaving her permanently incapacitated. She lived most of her life in institutional care, a hidden figure in the prominent Kennedy family. Rosemary’s story highlights the limited understanding and treatment of mental health issues during that era and the devastating consequences of such interventions.
Kathleen “Kick” Kennedy, born in 1920, was known for her vivacious personality and independent spirit. She defied societal norms and family expectations by marrying William Cavendish, Marquess of Hartington, a Protestant Englishman. This interfaith marriage caused tension within the devoutly Catholic Kennedy family. Tragically, Kathleen’s life was also cut short. Her husband was killed in action during World War II, and Kathleen herself died in a plane crash in 1948, just a few years later. Her adventurous spirit and tragic fate made her a legendary figure within the Kennedy family lore.
Eunice Kennedy Shriver, born in 1921, dedicated her life to social activism and philanthropy. She was a driving force behind the Special Olympics, a global movement providing sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, inspired in part by her sister Rosemary. Eunice was a tireless advocate for people with intellectual disabilities, working to change public perceptions and improve their lives. Her commitment to social justice and her establishment of the Special Olympics are enduring legacies.
Patricia “Pat” Kennedy Lawford, born in 1924, pursued a different path, focusing on the arts and civic engagement. She married actor Peter Lawford and became involved in Hollywood society. While less politically active than some of her siblings, Pat remained connected to the Kennedy family’s political world and dedicated herself to various charitable causes. She was a patron of the arts and supported organizations focused on education and community development.
Jean Kennedy Smith, the youngest daughter, born in 1928, also dedicated her life to public service. She served as the United States Ambassador to Ireland from 1993 to 1998, playing a significant role in the Northern Ireland peace process. Jean was a strong advocate for people with disabilities and founded Very Special Arts, an organization promoting arts and creative expression for individuals with disabilities, further extending Eunice’s work and honoring Rosemary. Her diplomatic service and commitment to inclusivity solidified her place as a respected figure in both American and Irish society.
The Younger Brothers: Robert and Edward (Ted) Kennedy
Robert “Bobby” Kennedy, born in 1925, became one of John F. Kennedy’s closest advisors and a prominent political figure in his own right. He served as Attorney General during his brother’s presidency and later as a U.S. Senator from New York. Bobby was known for his passionate commitment to civil rights and social justice, often taking a more progressive stance than his brother on these issues. He launched his own presidential campaign in 1968 but was tragically assassinated, just like his brother, a few years earlier. Bobby’s legacy as a champion for the marginalized and his dedication to social change continue to inspire.
Edward “Ted” Kennedy, the youngest of the nine siblings, born in 1932, became one of the longest-serving senators in U.S. history, representing Massachusetts for nearly 47 years. While his early career was marked by controversy, particularly the Chappaquiddick incident, Ted Kennedy ultimately became a highly influential and respected legislator, particularly known for his work on healthcare, education, and civil rights. He was a powerful voice for liberal causes and played a key role in shaping landmark legislation. His decades of service and legislative achievements cemented his place as a towering figure in American politics.
Family Dynamics and Influence
Growing up in such a large and competitive family undoubtedly shaped John F. Kennedy and his siblings. Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. instilled a strong emphasis on achievement, competition, and public service in his children. The siblings were encouraged to excel in everything they did, from academics and sports to public speaking and political ambition. This competitive environment, while fostering drive and ambition, also created intense pressure and sibling rivalry, particularly among the brothers.
The early death of Joe Jr. had a profound impact on the family dynamic and shifted the weight of expectation onto Jack. His siblings, in their own ways, supported and influenced his political career. Robert became his trusted advisor, while Eunice, Pat, and Jean actively campaigned for him. The Kennedy sisters, though less publicly visible in the political arena during that era, provided crucial support and contributed to the family’s overall political machine.
John F. Kennedy’s siblings were not merely background figures in his life story. They were integral to his upbringing, his values, and his political journey. Understanding their individual lives and the collective Kennedy family dynamic provides a richer and more nuanced appreciation of the man who became the 35th President of the United States and the enduring legacy of the Kennedy family. Their stories, filled with both triumph and tragedy, continue to fascinate and inspire, offering a glimpse into a remarkable American family and their profound impact on history.
