Many would argue that the Kennedy family is an American cultural and political dynasty. From former President John F. Kennedy to past Kennedy’s that have served as senators, ambassadors and in other high ranking government positions, the name today still signifies power and prestige.
The Kennedy Family at Hyannis Port, 04 September 1931. L-R: Robert Kennedy, John F. Kennedy, Eunice Kennedy, Jean Kennedy (on lap of) Joseph P. Kennedy Sr., Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy (who was pregnant with Edward “Ted” Kennedy at time of this photo), Patricia Kennedy, Kathleen Kennedy, Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. (behind) Rosemary Kennedy. Not pictured is Edward Kennedy, who was born in 1932. The dog in the foreground is Buddy.
However, go back just three generations from JFK and the Kennedy’s were poor, Irish refugees who had just arrived on the shores of America. This week – we discuss this historic ascent from rags to riches.
FILE- In this March 16, 1938 file photo, Joseph P. Kennedy, second from right, the new United States Ambassador to London, is shown as he welcomed the “first section” of his family – Mrs. Rose Kennedy, third from right, and five of their nine children – at Plymouth on their arrival in England. From left are Kathleen, Ambassador Kennedy, Mrs. Rose Kennedy, Patricia, Jean, Bobby. Teddy is in front. Joseph P. Kennedy was a financier and served as an ambassador to Great Britain under President Franklin Roosevelt. He was father to one U.S. president, John F. Kennedy, and two U.S. senators, Robert F. Kennedy Sr. and Edward Kennedy. He died in 1969 at age 81. (AP Photo, File)
Guest Information:
- Neal Thompson, journalist, author of The First Kennedy’s: The Humble Roots of an American Dynasty.
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