The Life and Legacy of Jackie Kennedy’s Mother, Janet Lee Bouvier

Introduction

Jackie Kennedy’s mother, Janet Lee Bouvier, was a prominent figure in American society known for her strong influence and philanthropic work. Born in 1907 as Janet Norton Lee, she married John Vernou Bouvier III in 1928 and together they had two daughters, Jacqueline Lee Bouvier (Jackie) and Lee Radziwill. Despite her tumultuous first marriage, Janet instilled in her daughters the principles of wealth and integrity, reflecting her own life decisions and later marriages.

Early Life and Marriage

Born in Manhattan, New York in 1907, Janet Norton Lee was a socialite and philanthropist. She married stockbroker John Vernou Bouvier III on July 7, 1928. This marriage eventually ended in divorce in 1940 due to Bouvier’s numerous affairs and gambling debts, which forced them to sell their Newport, Rhode Island, estate. This experience significantly influenced Janet’s later years and her approach to life, ultimately shaping the values instilled in her daughters.

Influence and Values

Janet Bouvier was known for her strong influence on her daughters. She instilled in Jackie and Lee the importance of wealth and social status, as seen in her subsequent marriages. Despite her initial failed marriage, Janet remained committed to raising her daughters as successful individuals. Her efforts were not in vain, as both Jackie and Lee would eventually find themselves in prominent social and political positions.

Later Life and Charitable Work

Janet Bouvier was deeply involved in various charitable activities. She used her social position to promote philanthropy and gave generously to causes she believed in. She maintained her social connections and continued to host gatherings and events that contributed to the social fabric of the time.

Death and Legacy

On July 22, 1989, Janet Lee Bouvier passed away at the age of 82 in Newport, Rhode Island. Her legacy endures through the values she imparted to her daughters, particularly Jackie, who went on to become the First Lady of the United States. Her influence on the Kennedy family and her role in American society remain a significant part of historical records and discussions.

Conclusion

Janet Lee Bouvier was a complex and influential figure, known as much for her tumultuous personal life as for her contributions to society. Her early marriages, her second marriage to William Walton Auchincloss Jr., and her continued philanthropic work left a lasting impact on her daughters and on the broader American social landscape. Her story is a testament to the enduring influence of a mother on the lives of her children and the values they carry into adulthood.