Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

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Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (JFKWHP-ST-91-1-62).jpg Official White House photo, 1961

Jacqueline Lee Kennedy Onassis (née Bouvier; July 28, 1929 – May 19, 1994) was an American socialite, writer, and photographer who served as First Lady of the United States from 1961 to 1963 as the wife of President John F. Kennedy. She was known for her style, elegance, and contributions to the arts and preservation of historic architecture.

Early Life and Education

Jacqueline Lee Bouvier was born on July 28, 1929, in Southampton, New York, to John Vernou Bouvier III and Janet Norton Lee. She had a younger sister, Caroline Lee. Jacqueline spent her early years in New York City and East Hampton, New York. She attended the Holton-Arms School, the Miss Porter's School, and later Vassar College before transferring to George Washington University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in French literature.

Marriage to John F. Kennedy

Jacqueline met then-Congressman John F. Kennedy at a dinner party in 1952. They married on September 12, 1953, at St. Mary's Church in Newport, Rhode Island. The couple had four children: Caroline, John Jr., Patrick, and a stillborn daughter, Arabella.

First Lady of the United States

As First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy was known for her dedication to the arts and historic preservation. She led the restoration of the White House, which included the establishment of the White House Historical Association and the creation of the White House guidebook. Her televised tour of the White House in 1962 was widely acclaimed and brought her national recognition.

Assassination of John F. Kennedy

On November 22, 1963, President Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas, while riding in a motorcade with Jacqueline at his side. Her composure during and after the assassination earned her admiration worldwide. She played a significant role in planning her husband's state funeral, which was watched by millions around the globe.

Later Life and Marriage to Aristotle Onassis

In 1968, Jacqueline married Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. The marriage provided her with financial security and privacy from the media. After Onassis's death in 1975, Jacqueline returned to the United States and began a career in publishing, working as an editor for Viking Press and later Doubleday.

Death and Legacy

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis died on May 19, 1994, in New York City from non-Hodgkin lymphoma. She was buried beside President Kennedy at Arlington National Cemetery. Her legacy includes her contributions to the arts, historic preservation, and her enduring influence on American culture and style.

Related Pages

• John F. Kennedy
• Caroline Kennedy
• John F. Kennedy Jr.
• Aristotle Onassis
• White House Historical Association
• First Lady of the United States
• Assassination of John F. Kennedy
• Arlington National Cemetery