Caroline Kennedy: A Legacy of Triumph, Tragedy, and Speaking Out Against RFK Jr.

Caroline Kennedy, the only surviving child of former US President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, has lived a life full of both privilege and heartbreak. At 67, she continues to captivate the world with her remarkable career and unwavering commitment to public service. But who is the woman behind the headlines? Let's dive into her extraordinary life, her family's legacy, and the controversy that surrounds her.

A Family Shaped by Tragedy

Born on November 27, 1957, in New York City, Caroline’s life was marked by profound tragedy from an early age. At just five years old, her father, President John F. Kennedy, was tragically assassinated in 1963. The ripple effect of this loss would be felt throughout her life, compounded by the murders of her uncle, Robert F. Kennedy, in 1968, and the untimely death of her brother, John F. Kennedy Jr., in a plane crash in 1999. The Kennedy family’s enduring legacy is often referred to as the Kennedy Curse, a shadow that seemed to follow them.

Despite these heart-wrenching events, Caroline’s resolve to honor her family's commitment to public service never wavered. Her mother, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, did everything in her power to shield Caroline and her brother from the media frenzy that surrounded their family, even relocating them to Greece after marrying shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. But Caroline’s return to the United States to pursue education and a career would prove that her path was already set.

Education and Early Career Achievements

Caroline’s intellectual prowess is undeniable. She attended the prestigious Concord Academy in Massachusetts before earning a Bachelor’s degree in American History and Literature from Harvard University. She later pursued a law degree at Columbia Law School, graduating in 1988.

Though she explored various career paths early on — including roles as a research assistant at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and a potential career in photojournalism — Caroline ultimately found her calling in law and public service. She became the Director of the Office of Strategic Partnerships for the New York City Department of Education, working for a token salary of just $1 a week, demonstrating her dedication to causes greater than financial gain.

A Trailblazing Political Career

Caroline’s political journey took off when she endorsed Barack Obama during his 2008 presidential campaign. Her involvement didn’t stop there — she co-chaired the Vice Presidential Search Committee and played an influential role in Obama’s 2012 re-election campaign.

In 2013, President Obama appointed Caroline as the US Ambassador to Japan, making her the first woman to hold this prestigious position. During her tenure, she worked tirelessly to strengthen US-Japan relations, attending solemn ceremonies for atomic bomb victims and christening the USS John F. Kennedy aircraft carrier.

Her influence continued to grow when, in 2021, President Joe Biden named Caroline as the US Ambassador to Australia. She made significant strides on issues like climate change, Pacific Island support, and enhancing US-Australia relations under the AUKUS alliance. After concluding her role in 2024, she left behind a powerful legacy, one marked by diplomacy and progress.

Personal Life and Family

Caroline’s personal life reflects both her sense of duty and her love for family. In 1986, she married Edwin Schlossberg, a designer and artist. Together, they have three children: Rose, Tatiana, and Jack. Rose has carved out a career in acting and writing, Tatiana is a climate change journalist, and Jack is a lawyer actively involved with the JFK Library Foundation.

In addition to her family, Caroline is a passionate writer and editor. She has co-authored books on privacy law and human rights, as well as edited several literary collections, including one featuring her mother’s favorite poems. These literary and philanthropic endeavors show her deep commitment to preserving her family's legacy while advocating for crucial causes.

Net Worth and Lasting Legacy

Caroline Kennedy’s financial success is just as impressive as her public service. With an estimated net worth of $250 million, derived from her career, inheritance, and real estate holdings, including the 375-acre Red Gate Farm in Martha’s Vineyard, Caroline stands as a powerful figure in both American history and modern society.

Speaking Out: A Controversial Stand Against RFK Jr.

In addition to her many accomplishments, Caroline is not one to shy away from controversy. In a recent letter to lawmakers, she vehemently criticized her cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., calling him a “predator” and condemning his controversial views on vaccinations. She argued that his stance was not only misguided but also harmful, distancing herself from his public health positions.

Caroline Kennedy’s life is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Kennedy family — a legacy built on service, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a better world. From her trailblazing role as an ambassador to her outspoken stance on important issues, she continues to make her mark on history, all while remaining true to the values that shaped her family.

Her story is one of resilience, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of a more just and compassionate world.