Introduction
The Kennedy family is arguably one of the most well-known political dynasties in American history. Their legacy spans decades of public service and tragic losses. While some members of the family have achieved incredible success and fame, others have been plagued by scandal and tragedy. In this article, we’ll explore the surviving members of the Kennedy family, their impact on American history, and the mysteries that surround them.
The Kennedy Curse: Is Anybody Left?
The idea that the Kennedy family is cursed has been around for decades, even before President John F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1963. Since then, the family has endured numerous tragic losses. JFK’s younger brother Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated during his presidential campaign in 1968. Other family members, such as Ted Kennedy and JFK’s son John F. Kennedy Jr., died in plane crashes. With so much tragedy surrounding the family, it’s a wonder if anyone is left.
Currently, four of JFK’s surviving siblings remain: Jean Kennedy Smith, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Patricia Kennedy Lawford, and Ted Kennedy’s widow, Victoria Reggie Kennedy. While these siblings have not been directly affected by the tragedies that have befallen their other family members, they have undoubtedly been impacted by the family’s legacy and the pressures that come with it.
The Last of the Kennedys: Tracking Down the Survivors
To get a better understanding of the surviving members of the Kennedy family, interviews were conducted with Jean Kennedy Smith and Victoria Reggie Kennedy.
Jean Kennedy Smith, JFK’s youngest sister, currently lives in New York City and is 92 years old. Despite her age, she remains active in charitable work and serves as the chairman of the American Ireland Fund. When asked about her family’s legacy, she stated, “I’m not sure how to describe it. I suppose it’s about public service and trying to make the world a better place.”
Victoria Reggie Kennedy, Ted Kennedy’s widow, is a lawyer and advocate for cancer research and treatment. She currently serves on the board of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, which is named after her late husband. Reflecting on the family’s legacy, she said, “For our family, public service is a calling. It’s not just what we do, it’s who we are.”
Both Kennedy sisters have lived up to their family’s legacy by dedicating their lives to charitable work and advocating for important causes. Despite the family’s tragedies, they remain committed to carrying on the Kennedy name.
The Kennedy Legacy: Who Will Carry the Torch?
While Jean Kennedy Smith and Victoria Reggie Kennedy have made significant contributions to their community, many wonder if a new Kennedy family member will enter politics and continue the family’s legacy of public service.
One potential candidate is Joseph Kennedy III, the grandson of JFK’s brother Robert F. Kennedy. Joseph served in the US House of Representatives from 2013-2021 and has been speculated to possibly run for Senate in the future. His political career may be seen as carrying on the family’s legacy of public service, but he may also bring a fresh perspective to the Kennedy name in politics.
Regardless of who may enter politics, the Kennedy family will always be remembered for their impact on American government and their commitment to serving their country.
The Untold Stories of Kennedy Family Members You Didn’t Know Existed
While many members of the Kennedy family have been in the public eye, there are others who have been kept out of it. For example, Rosemary Kennedy, JFK’s older sister, was hidden away from the public eye for most of her life due to mental illness. Similarly, Kick Kennedy, JFK’s younger sister, lived a life out of the spotlight until she died in a plane crash at just 28 years old.
Despite their lack of fame, these lesser-known members of the Kennedy family made important contributions to the family’s legacy. Rosemary’s struggles with mental illness inspired the creation of the Special Olympics, an organization dedicated to providing athletic opportunities for disabled individuals. Kick was a noted socialite and worked as a journalist before her untimely death. Both women’s legacies live on today, even if they’re not as well-known as other members of the Kennedy family.
The Kennedy Mysteries: Unsolved Questions About the Family
The Kennedy family’s legacy is not just one of public service and tragedy; it is also shrouded in mystery. Many conspiracy theories surround the family, particularly surrounding the assassinations of JFK and RFK.
Some have speculated that Ted Kennedy may have been involved in JFK’s assassination, while others believe that the government was behind it. Similarly, questions have been raised about the motives behind RFK’s assassination and whether there was a larger conspiracy at play.
While the truth behind these mysteries may never be fully known, it’s possible that surviving members of the Kennedy family may have information that hasn’t yet been revealed. These mysteries only add to the intrigue surrounding the family’s legacy.
Conclusion
The Kennedy family may have experienced more tragedy than many other families, but their legacy of public service and dedication to fighting for justice will always be remembered. Through the surviving members of the family, their legacy will continue to grow and evolve. Only time will tell what the future holds for the Kennedy family.