50 Facts About Caroline Kennedy

Early Life and Family

Caroline Kennedy's early life was marked by both privilege and tragedy. Born into one of America's most famous families, she experienced the highs of political success and the lows of personal loss.

1. Caroline Bouvier Kennedy was born on November 27, 1957, in New York City.
2. Her father, John F. Kennedy, was a junior Democratic senator from Massachusetts at the time of her birth.
3. Caroline's birth brought joy to her parents, who had previously experienced a miscarriage and stillbirth.
4. In November 1960, her father was elected President of the United States.
5. Caroline welcomed a baby brother, John F. Kennedy Jr., on November 25, 1960, just two days before her third birthday.

Life in the White House

Caroline's early years were spent in the White House, where she and her brother brought a sense of normalcy and playfulness to the presidential mansion.

6. The Kennedy family moved into the White House on January 20, 1961.
7. Caroline and John Jr. were known for their playful energy in the White House.
8. On November 22, 1963, Caroline's father was assassinated in Dallas, Texas, profoundly impacting her life.
9. After the assassination, Caroline and her family moved to the Upper East Side of Manhattan.
10. They later relocated to Georgetown, Washington, D.C., before eventually settling back in Manhattan.

Education and Early Career

Caroline pursued a strong educational background, which laid the foundation for her future career in law, writing, and public service.

11. Caroline attended private school in New York City.
12. She graduated from Concord Academy in Massachusetts in 1975.
13. Caroline earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Harvard University's Radcliffe College in 1980.
14. She attended Columbia Law School, graduating with a Juris Doctor degree in 1988.
15. Caroline passed the New York State bar exam in 1989.

Marriage and Family Life

Caroline's personal life has been marked by a stable marriage and the joys of raising her children.

16. Caroline married Edwin Schlossberg in 1986.
17. The couple has three children: Rose Kennedy Schlossberg (born 1988), Tatiana Celia Kennedy Schlossberg (born 1990), and John Bouvier Kennedy Schlossberg (born 1993).
18. Caroline met Edwin Schlossberg while working at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
19. The family has maintained a relatively private life despite their public prominence.
20. Caroline and her family founded the Profile in Courage Award in 1989 to honor public officials demonstrating politically courageous leadership.

Writing and Public Service

Caroline has made significant contributions through her writing and public service roles, continuing the legacy of her family.

21. Caroline co-wrote "In Our Defense: The Bill of Rights in Action" with Ellen Alderman, published in 1991.
22. She served as the president of the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation and has been an honorary president since 2009.
23. Caroline has served on the boards of numerous non-profit organizations, including the Commission on Presidential Debates and the N.A.A.C.P. Legal Defense and Educational Fund.
24. She endorsed Barack Obama for president and served as co-chair of his Vice Presidential Search Committee.
25. Caroline addressed the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver.

Diplomatic Roles

Caroline's diplomatic roles have further solidified her commitment to public service and international relations.

26. In 2013, President Barack Obama appointed Caroline as the United States ambassador to Japan.
27. She was the first female ambassador to serve in Japan, holding the position until January 2017.
28. Caroline resigned as ambassador to Japan shortly before Donald Trump was sworn in as president.
29. She formally left her position on January 18, 2017.
30. In 2022, Joe Biden appointed Caroline as the United States ambassador to Australia, taking office following her confirmation on June 10, 2022.

Personal Tragedies and Resilience

Caroline has faced significant personal tragedies but has shown remarkable resilience throughout her life.

31. In 1994, her mother, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, passed away after a long battle with lymphatic cancer.
32. In 1999, her brother John F. Kennedy Jr. was killed in a plane crash along with his wife and sister-in-law.
33. Caroline inherited Red Gate Farm, a 375-acre estate in Aquinnah, Martha’s Vineyard, from her mother.
34. The estate has been a significant part of her life, used for various charitable and personal activities.
35. Caroline was the inspiration for Neil Diamond’s famous song "Sweet Caroline," released in 1969.

Philanthropy and Legacy

Caroline's philanthropic efforts and dedication to her family's legacy have made her a respected figure in American society.

36. Caroline has supported the American Ballet Theatre and other cultural institutions.
37. She managed her mother's $200 million estate after her death.
38. Caroline has edited best-selling volumes, including "The Best-Loved Poems of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis" and "A Patriot's Handbook."
39. She served as director of the Office of Strategic Partnerships for the New York City Department of Education from 2002 through 2004.
40. Caroline helped raise more than $65 million for New York City public schools during her tenure.

Continued Public Engagement

Despite her private nature, Caroline has occasionally stepped into the public spotlight to support causes and political candidates.

41. Caroline supported Al Gore in the 2000 presidential election and spoke at the Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles.
42. She made several appearances to promote Barack Obama’s re-election in June 2012.
43. Caroline was one of 35 national co-chairs for Obama’s 2012 re-election campaign.
44. She has served on the board of trustees of Concord Academy, which she attended as a teen.
45. Caroline continues to inspire many with her dedication to public service and her efforts in promoting her family's legacy.

Awards and Recognition

Caroline's contributions to public service and her family's legacy have earned her numerous awards and recognitions.

46. Caroline has received awards for her work in public service and her efforts in promoting the legacy of her family.
47. She has been honored for her contributions to various philanthropic causes.
48. Caroline's educational background includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts from Harvard University’s Radcliffe College and a Juris Doctor degree from Columbia Law School.
49. Despite her public life, Caroline has maintained a private personal life, focusing on her family and philanthropic efforts.
50. Caroline Kennedy’s legacy extends beyond her public service roles, inspiring many with her dedication to promoting her family's legacy and contributing to society.

Caroline Kennedy's Remarkable Journey

Caroline Kennedy's life is a blend of tragedy and public service. From her early days in the White House to her roles as ambassador to Japan and Australia, she's shown resilience and dedication. Her work with the Profile in Courage Award and various non-profits highlights her commitment to public service. Despite personal losses, including her father's assassination and her brother's tragic death, Caroline has remained a steadfast figure in American society. Her contributions to education, politics, and philanthropy are significant. Caroline's legacy is not just about her famous family but also about her own achievements and impact. She continues to inspire many with her dedication to promoting the Kennedy legacy and her efforts to make a difference in the world. Caroline Kennedy's journey is truly remarkable and continues to influence many.