Nourishes People Spiritually

Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy was born on July 28, 1929, in Southampton, New York, to John Vernou Bouvier III and Janet Lee Bouvier. Raised in a privileged yet turbulent household, she developed a love for literature, art, and equestrian sports. She studied at Vassar College before transferring to George Washington University, earning a degree in French literature in 1951. After graduation, she worked as a journalist for the Washington Times-Herald before meeting John F. Kennedy, then a U.S. senator. They married in 1953, and she soon took on the role of political partner, supporting his successful 1960 presidential campaign. At 31, she became First Lady, bringing attention to the arts, historic preservation, and diplomacy, notably overseeing the White House restoration and promoting American culture abroad.

As First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy became an influential figure, admired for her intelligence, grace, and commitment to public service. Fluent in multiple languages, she played a key role in diplomatic visits, earning international admiration. She worked to preserve American heritage, establishing the White House Historical Association and advocating for historic landmarks. She also navigated moments of crisis, including the Cuban Missile Crisis. On November 22, 1963, she was at her husband’s side when he was assassinated in Dallas. In the aftermath, she orchestrated a funeral rich in historical symbolism and worked to shape John F. Kennedy’s legacy.

In 1968, Jacqueline Kennedy married Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis, seeking privacy and security for herself and her children. After his death in 1975, she built a career as a book editor in New York City, working at Viking Press and later Doubleday. She remained engaged in historic preservation, playing a role in saving Grand Central Terminal. In her later years, she led a private life while continuing to support cultural and political causes. She died from cancer on May 19, 1994, at age 64, and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery alongside President Kennedy. She remains one of the most recognizable First Ladies, remembered for her contributions to American culture and history.