Summary
The legacy of Ethel Kennedy, who passed away in 2024 at the age of 96, is explored in a new book by her daughter, Carrie Kennedy. The book draws from Ethel's letters, journals, and family memories, detailing her life from her challenging upbringing to her marriage with Robert F. Kennedy and her enduring commitment to social justice. Carrie reflects on her mother's resilience following the assassination of her husband in 1968 while she was pregnant with their eleventh child, emphasizing Ethel's ability to move forward with faith and service to her family and community.
Carrie shares insights into their family dynamics, including the structured yet chaotic environment of their household, where discussions on current events were commonplace. She highlights how Ethel's tough childhood, marked by rough-and-tumble brothers, shaped her fearless character and commitment to social causes. The conversation also touches on the complexities of family relationships, particularly with Carrie's brother, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whom she describes as "extremely dangerous" due to his controversial views and actions regarding public health.
Throughout the discussion, Carrie emphasizes the importance of love, acceptance, and taking action in the face of adversity, drawing lessons from her mother's life that resonate with the current state of societal division. Ethel's mantra of gratitude, "Aren't we lucky?" serves as a reminder of the power of perspective and the need for compassion in challenging times.
Show Notes
Ethel Kennedy was pregnant with her 11th child when her husband, Robert F. Kennedy, was assassinated in 1968. She spent the next five decades raising her children, keeping her faith, and fighting for the causes they shared. In a new book, Ethel Kennedy: The Extraordinary Life and Bold Legacy, Kerry Kennedy tells her mother’s story, from Ethel’s rough-and-tumble childhood and the legendary parties at Hickory Hill to the fearless advocate she became in her own right.
Kerry sits down with Katie to talk about growing up in a house full of chaos and love, learning that her father had been shot when she was just eight, and the deep faith that carried her mother through unimaginable loss. She also opens up about her brother, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whom she calls “extremely dangerous,” and why she keeps the door open to him anyway. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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