Ethel Skakel Kennedy: A Life Of Advocacy, Tragedy, And Resilience

Ethel Skakel Kennedy: A Life of Advocacy, Tragedy, and Resilience

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Ethel Skakel Kennedy: A Life of Advocacy, Tragedy, and Resilience

Ethel Skakel Kennedy, a prominent figure in American history, is not alive today. She passed away on June 11, 2020, at the age of 92. Ethel’s life was one of both extraordinary privilege and profound tragedy. She was the matriarch of the Kennedy family, a renowned advocate for social justice, and a beacon of resilience in the face of personal loss.

Ethel Skakel Kennedy’s Early Life and Family:

Born in 1928, Ethel Skakel was the daughter of George Skakel, a wealthy businessman, and Ann Frances Skakel. She grew up in Greenwich, Connecticut, in a privileged environment. Her family was deeply involved in the Republican party, and Ethel’s early years were marked by a life of social events, travel, and education at elite schools.

Marriage to Robert F. Kennedy:

In 1950, Ethel Skakel met Robert F. Kennedy, then a young and ambitious attorney serving as chief counsel to the Senate Committee on Investigations. Their relationship blossomed, and they married in 1950 at St. Edward’s Church in Greenwich, Connecticut. The wedding was a grand affair, signifying the union of two prominent families.

The Kennedy Family and Political Life:

Ethel’s life became inextricably linked to the Kennedy family and its political legacy. Robert F. Kennedy’s political career soared, culminating in his election as a US Senator from New York in 1964. Ethel became a dedicated campaigner, actively supporting her husband’s political endeavors. She was known for her warmth, charisma, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Tragedy Strikes: The Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy:

The Kennedy family’s life was forever changed by the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy on June 5, 1968. Ethel was just 39 years old when her husband was shot and killed during his presidential campaign. The loss was devastating, leaving her a young widow with 11 children to raise.

Motherhood and Advocacy:

Ethel’s life after Robert F. Kennedy’s death was marked by her unwavering commitment to her children and her passionate advocacy for social justice. She became a vocal advocate for the poor, the disadvantaged, and the mentally ill. Her dedication to these causes was rooted in her personal experiences and her belief in the inherent dignity of every human being.

The Ethel Kennedy Legacy:

Ethel Skakel Kennedy’s life was a tapestry of privilege, tragedy, and resilience. She was a woman who navigated the complexities of the Kennedy dynasty, the pain of personal loss, and the demands of raising a large family. Her unwavering commitment to social justice and her lifelong dedication to improving the lives of others serve as a powerful testament to her character and enduring legacy.

Related Searches:

1. Ethel Kennedy Children:

Ethel Skakel Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy had eleven children:

• Kathleen Kennedy Townsend (born 1951)
• Joseph P. Kennedy II (born 1952)
• Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (born 1954)
• David A. Kennedy (born 1955)
• Mary Courtney Kennedy (born 1956)
• Michael LeMoyne Kennedy (born 1958)
• Kerry Kennedy Cuomo (born 1959)
• Christopher G. Kennedy (born 1963)
• Max Kennedy (born 1965)
• Douglas Kennedy (born 1967)
• Rory Kennedy (born 1968)

The Kennedy children have all pursued diverse careers, ranging from politics and law to filmmaking and social activism. They have continued to carry the legacy of their parents and advocate for social justice in various ways.

2. Ethel Kennedy Net Worth:

While Ethel Skakel Kennedy’s net worth is not publicly available, it is believed to be substantial. Her husband, Robert F. Kennedy, was a prominent political figure with a significant estate. After his death, Ethel inherited a portion of his wealth, which she managed and used to support her family and philanthropic endeavors.

3. Ethel Kennedy Cause of Death:

Ethel Skakel Kennedy passed away on June 11, 2020, at the age of 92. Her death was attributed to natural causes. She died peacefully at her home in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, surrounded by her family.

4. Ethel Kennedy Funeral:

Ethel Skakel Kennedy’s funeral was held on June 16, 2020, at St. Edward’s Church in Greenwich, Connecticut, the same church where she had married Robert F. Kennedy 70 years earlier. The funeral was a private ceremony attended by close family and friends.

5. Ethel Kennedy Quotes:

Ethel Skakel Kennedy was known for her eloquence and wisdom. Some of her most memorable quotes include:

• "I think the most important thing is to be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not."
• "It’s not what you have in your life, it’s who you have in your life that matters."
• "We must never forget that the greatest gift we have is the gift of life."

6. Ethel Kennedy Books:

Ethel Skakel Kennedy wrote two books:

• "The Right to Dream: The Story of the Kennedy Family" (1995): This book is a memoir that recounts her life with Robert F. Kennedy and the challenges she faced after his assassination.
• "Ethel: A Life" (2014): This book is a biography written by her daughter, Kerry Kennedy Cuomo, which provides a more in-depth account of Ethel’s life and legacy.

7. Ethel Kennedy Foundation:

Ethel Skakel Kennedy was a dedicated philanthropist and founded several organizations, including the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial, which continues to promote his legacy of social justice and human rights. The foundation works to address global poverty, hunger, and inequality.

8. Ethel Kennedy Family Tree:

Ethel Skakel Kennedy’s family tree is a complex and intertwined network of influential individuals. Her lineage includes the Skakel family, a prominent Irish-American family with a long history in the United States, and the Kennedy family, one of the most famous political dynasties in American history.

FAQs:

1. Was Ethel Kennedy a Democrat or Republican?

Ethel Skakel Kennedy was a Democrat. Her husband, Robert F. Kennedy, was a prominent Democrat who served as a senator and attorney general. Ethel became a dedicated supporter of the Democratic Party and actively campaigned for her husband and other Democratic candidates.

2. How many children did Ethel Kennedy have?

Ethel Skakel Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy had eleven children: Kathleen, Joseph, Robert Jr., David, Mary, Michael, Kerry, Christopher, Max, Douglas, and Rory.

3. What was Ethel Kennedy’s cause of death?

Ethel Skakel Kennedy died of natural causes at the age of 92 on June 11, 2020. She passed away peacefully at her home in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, surrounded by her family.

4. Where is Ethel Kennedy buried?

Ethel Skakel Kennedy is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. She is buried next to her husband, Robert F. Kennedy.

5. What was Ethel Kennedy’s most significant achievement?

Ethel Skakel Kennedy’s most significant achievement was her unwavering commitment to social justice and her dedication to improving the lives of others. She was a tireless advocate for the poor, the disadvantaged, and the mentally ill, and her work had a lasting impact on countless lives.

Tips:

• Learn about the Kennedy family history: Understanding the historical context of the Kennedy family and its political legacy is crucial to appreciating Ethel Skakel Kennedy’s life and contributions.
• Explore Ethel Kennedy’s advocacy work: Read about the organizations she supported and the causes she championed.
• Read her books: Both "The Right to Dream" and "Ethel: A Life" provide insightful perspectives on Ethel’s life and her experiences.
• Visit Arlington National Cemetery: Pay your respects to Ethel Skakel Kennedy and her husband, Robert F. Kennedy, at their final resting place.
• Support the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial: Contribute to the foundation that continues to promote Robert F. Kennedy’s legacy of social justice and human rights.

Conclusion:

Ethel Skakel Kennedy was a woman of extraordinary resilience and unwavering commitment to social justice. Her life was marked by both immense privilege and profound tragedy. She navigated the complexities of the Kennedy dynasty, the pain of personal loss, and the demands of raising a large family. Ethel’s legacy is one of advocacy, compassion, and a deep belief in the inherent dignity of every human being. She will be remembered as a powerful force for good in the world and an inspiring example of how one person can make a difference.

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