Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
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Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, often simply known as Jackie O, was an American icon whose life was marked by both immense privilege and profound tragedy. From her elegant style to her resilience in the face of public loss, she captured the hearts of a nation and left an indelible mark on American culture and history. Her life spanned from the gilded age of debutantes to a more modern era, reflecting the changing landscape of American society. This timeline traces some of the key moments in her remarkable life.
Main Milestones
Birth in Southampton, New York
July 28, 1929
Jacqueline Lee Bouvier was born to John Vernou Bouvier III and Janet Norton Lee in Southampton, New York, into a world of wealth and social prominence. Her early childhood was characterized by horsemanship, a love of reading, and a privileged upbringing within the exclusive social circles of Long Island and Manhattan. This early exposure to wealth and high society would later shape her taste and style, contributing to her image as an elegant and sophisticated figure.
Divorce of her parents
1942
The divorce of Jacqueline's parents, John Vernou Bouvier III and Janet Norton Lee, was a significant event in her young life. Though she maintained a close relationship with her father, his struggles with alcoholism and financial instability impacted the family dynamic. Her mother's subsequent marriage to Hugh D. Auchincloss Jr., brought her into a new, even wealthier and more established social circle, providing her with stability and access to prominent figures and institutions.
Vassar and George Washington University
1947-1951
Jacqueline attended Vassar College for two years before spending her junior year abroad in France, at the Sorbonne in Paris, enriching her appreciation of European culture, language and history. She later transferred to George Washington University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in French Literature. Her education further cultivated her intellectual curiosity and sophisticated worldview, setting the stage for her future career and role as a cultural ambassador.
Marriage to John F. Kennedy
September 12, 1953
Jacqueline Bouvier married then-Senator John F. Kennedy in a lavish and highly publicized wedding in Newport, Rhode Island. The marriage marked the beginning of her journey into the heart of American politics. As a young senator's wife, she quickly adapted to the demands of political life, showcasing her grace, style, and intelligence, and becoming a popular figure within Washington society.
First Lady of the United States
1961-1963
As First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy redefined the role, bringing a renewed sense of style, culture, and elegance to the White House. She oversaw a historic renovation of the White House, transforming it into a showcase of American history and artistry. She also championed the arts and promoted American culture both domestically and internationally, becoming a beloved figure known for her poise, grace, and impeccable taste.
Assassination of John F. Kennedy
November 22, 1963
The assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, Texas, was a defining moment in Jacqueline's life and in American history. Her composure and dignity in the face of unimaginable grief, particularly during the televised funeral, resonated deeply with the nation and cemented her status as an icon of resilience and grace. The image of her veiled figure leading her children through the funeral procession remains a powerful symbol of national mourning.
Marriage to Aristotle Onassis
October 20, 1968
Five years after the assassination of her husband, Jacqueline Kennedy married Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. This marriage offered her and her children a sense of security and privacy away from the intense scrutiny of the American public. However, it also drew criticism and controversy, with some viewing it as a betrayal of JFK's legacy.
Return to New York City
1975
Following Aristotle Onassis's death in 1975, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis returned permanently to New York City. She began a new chapter of her life, focusing on her family and personal interests. This marked a transition from a life lived in the public eye to a more private existence focused on her children and professional pursuits.
Career as a Book Editor
1978-1994
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis embarked on a successful career as a book editor, first at Viking Press and later at Doubleday. She played a crucial role in publishing a wide range of notable books, demonstrating her intellectual curiosity and passion for literature. This professional endeavor allowed her to pursue her interests and contribute to the world of publishing in a meaningful way, further showcasing her multifaceted personality beyond her role as First Lady.
Death in New York City
May 19, 1994
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis died of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in New York City at the age of 64. Her death marked the end of an era and prompted widespread mourning across the nation and around the world. She left behind a legacy of grace, style, and resilience, forever remembered as one of America's most beloved and influential figures.