Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, known worldwide for her style and elegance, left a lasting impact on American history. Her life story is one of achievement, challenge, and resilience, and her legacy continues to inspire many even after her passing. In this article, we will explore the life of Jackie Kennedy, from her childhood to her years as the First Lady and beyond.
Growing Up
Jacqueline Lee Bouvier was born into an affluent family in Southampton, New York, on July 28, 1929. She was the daughter of John Bouvier, a wealthy stockbroker, and Janet Lee, an accomplished rider. At an early age, Jackie showed an interest in horseback riding, winning several national championships by the time she was 11 years old. She was also an avid reader and spent much of her childhood reading books on her bookshelves. However, when her parents divorced when she was ten years old, Jackie had to face the challenges of a broken family. Despite these challenges, Jackie continued to excel in school, and after graduating from Miss Porter’s School, a boarding school for girls, she enrolled at Vassar College in New York.
Going to School
At Vassar College, Jackie studied a variety of subjects, including history, literature, art, and French. She spent her junior year in Paris, France, where she lived with a French family and deepened her love for European culture. After returning to the United States, Jackie transferred to The George Washington University, where she completed her last year of college. Her education provided her with a strong foundation for her later career as a journalist.
Jacqueline Bouvier: The Inquiring Photographer
After graduating from college, Jackie started her first job as a reporter-photographer at the Washington Times-Herald newspaper. Jackie worked as the “Inquiring Camera Girl,” taking pictures of people and asking them questions on the issues of the day. During her career, Jackie covered many historical events, including the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, and interviewed prominent figures such as Richard Nixon. Through hard work and determination, Jackie established herself as a successful journalist and caught the eye of future President John F. Kennedy.
Lee Radziwill
Lee Radziwill was Jackie’s younger sister and a socialite and fashion icon in her own right. Although she shared many qualities with Jackie, including wealth, social status, and ambition, she struggled to achieve success in her own right. Lee made attempts at acting, interior decorating, and writing, but never achieved the same level of success as Jackie. However, she remained close to her sister throughout her life.
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
Jackie’s life changed when she met John F. Kennedy, a U.S. senator from Massachusetts who would later become the 35th President of the United States. After a two-year courtship, Jackie and John got married in 1953. As First Lady, Jacqueline made the White House a showcase for the nation’s most accomplished and talented individuals. She also worked to restore the White House to its original elegance, securing funding for the preservation of historic artifacts. After JFK’s assassination in 1963, Jackie continued to work as an editor, and later as a book editor, establishing herself as an accomplished author and preservationist.
Conclusion
The life of Jackie Kennedy continues to inspire generations even after her passing. Her achievements, challenges, and legacy serve as a testament to her resilience and determination. As a pioneering journalist, accomplished First Lady, and successful author, Jackie broke barriers, challenged norms, and left an indelible mark on American history. Her legacy will continue to inspire many for years to come.
