Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (1929–1994) was an American writer, book editor, and socialite who served as the First Lady of the United States from 1961 to 1963 during her marriage to President John F. Kennedy. Renowned for her elegance and dedication to the arts, she left an enduring impact on American culture.
Early Life and Education
Born on July 28, 1929, in Southampton, New York, Jacqueline Lee Bouvier was the daughter of John Vernou Bouvier III and Janet Lee Bouvier. She attended Vassar College and later graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in French literature from George Washington University in 1951. Following her studies, she worked as an “inquiring photographer” for the Washington Times-Herald.
Role as First Lady
As First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy was celebrated for her commitment to preserving the White House’s historical integrity and promoting American arts and culture.
She established the Fine Arts Committee for the White House in 1961, leading efforts to restore and furnish the presidential residence authentically. Her dedication to the arts and history made her a beloved figure both nationally and internationally.
Fashion Icon
Jacqueline’s fashion choices during her husband’s presidency set trends and solidified her status as a style icon. She favored designers like Chanel, Balenciaga, and Givenchy, and her preference for clean-cut suits, pillbox hats, and elegant evening gowns influenced women’s fashion worldwide. Her signature triple-strand pearl necklace and oversized sunglasses became emblematic of her timeless style.
Personal Life
Jacqueline married John F. Kennedy on September 12, 1953, in Newport, Rhode Island. They had four children: Caroline, John F. Kennedy Jr., and two who died in infancy. Following President Kennedy’s assassination in 1963, she married Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis in 1968. After Onassis’s death in 1975, she worked as a book editor in New York City, first at Viking Press and later at Doubleday.
Legacy
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis remains an enduring symbol of grace, style, and cultural sophistication. Her efforts in historic preservation and her influence on fashion continue to be celebrated. She passed away on May 19, 1994, in New York City, and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery alongside President Kennedy and two of their children.