The Extraordinary Life of Ethel Kennedy: A Legacy of Love and Resilience
Discover the inspiring story of Ethel Kennedy, a woman of strength and grace. Her life, love, and legacy explored in a new memoir.
POLICY WIRE — New York, United States — Ethel Skakel Kennedy, the wife of Robert F. Kennedy, left behind an enduring legacy of resilience, love, and dedication to human rights. Her daughter, Kerry Kennedy, recently reflected on her mother’s remarkable life, describing her as ‘extraordinarily chic, fun, funny, fully alive.’ A new memoir, ‘Ethel Kennedy: The Extraordinary Life and Bold Legacy,’ set for release, delves into her journey.
Kerry shared that many people remain unaware of the depth of her mother’s life, calling it ‘a story of wonder and beauty and inspiration.’ Ethel, who was raised in a Republican household, became a lifelong Democrat. Her relationship with Robert F. Kennedy began during a ski trip with her roommate, Jean Kennedy, where she developed a crush on him—only to learn he was dating her sister. Despite this, they married in 1950, starting a family that would grow to include 11 children.
Ethel’s life was marked by both joy and profound loss. After the assassination of John F. Kennedy, she supported her husband through grief while managing their growing family. She later founded the Robert and Ethel Kennedy Human Rights Center, dedicating herself to fighting oppression globally. Despite personal tragedies, including the deaths of two sons, she remained steadfast. In 2014, President Obama honored her with the Medal of Freedom, recognizing her quiet but unstoppable impact on the world.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
