Robert F. Kennedy: Age, Networth, Parents, Presidential Campaign, Death, History,Assassination
Robert Francis Kennedy, often referred to as RFK or Bobby, was a prominent American politician and lawyer who left an indelible mark on American history. As the younger brother of President John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy played a crucial role in shaping American politics and social justice during the 1960s. This article explores the life, career, and enduring legacy of Robert F. Kennedy.
Early Life and Education of Robert F. Kennedy
Born on November 20, 1925, in Brookline, Massachusetts, Robert F. Kennedy was the seventh child of Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy. He grew up in a family deeply involved in politics and public service, which would greatly influence his future career.
Robert F. Kennedy attended Harvard College, interrupting his studies to serve in the U.S. Naval Reserve during World War II. After the war, he completed his degree at Harvard and went on to earn a law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1951.
Early Career of Robert F. Kennedy
After law school, Robert F. Kennedy began his career in public service:
1. 1951-1952: Worked as an attorney in the Internal Security Section of the U.S. Department of Justice
2. 1953-1956: Served as counsel for the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, including working briefly for Senator Joseph McCarthy
3. 1957-1959: Chief counsel for the Senate Select Committee on Improper Activities in Labor and Management
During this period, Robert F. Kennedy gained a reputation as a tough and effective investigator, particularly in his work against organized crime and corrupt labor unions.
Robert F. Kennedy as Attorney General
In 1960, Robert F. Kennedy managed his brother John F. Kennedy’s successful presidential campaign. Following JFK’s election, Robert was appointed United States Attorney General, serving from 1961 to 1964.
As Attorney General, Robert F. Kennedy’s key initiatives included:
1. Civil Rights: Strongly supported the civil rights movement and enforced desegregation orders
2. Organized Crime: Increased prosecutions against organized crime by 800%
3. Cuban Missile Crisis: Played a crucial role in resolving the crisis as a member of ExComm (Executive Committee of the National Security Council)
4. Wiretapping: Authorized FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover to wiretap Martin Luther King Jr., a decision he later regretted
Robert F. Kennedy’s tenure as Attorney General was marked by his unwavering commitment to civil rights and his aggressive stance against organized crime.
Senate Career of Robert F. Kennedy
After his brother’s assassination in 1963, Robert F. Kennedy resigned as Attorney General in 1964 to run for the United States Senate from New York. He won the election and served as senator from 1965 until his death in 1968.
As a senator, Robert F. Kennedy focused on several key issues:
1. Poverty: Advocated for programs to address urban and rural poverty
2. Civil Rights: Continued to champion civil rights legislation and causes
3. Vietnam War: Initially supported the war but became an outspoken critic by 1967
4. Gun Control: Pushed for stricter gun control laws
During his time in the Senate, Robert F. Kennedy became increasingly popular among minority communities and young people, emerging as a voice for the disenfranchised and marginalized.
1968 Presidential Campaign of Robert F. Kennedy
On March 16, 1968, Robert F. Kennedy announced his candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination. His campaign focused on:
1. Ending the Vietnam War
2. Addressing racial and economic injustice
3. Unifying a deeply divided nation
Kennedy’s campaign gained momentum, winning several primaries and caucuses. His charismatic speaking style and message of hope resonated with many Americans, particularly young people and minority communities.
Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy
Tragically, Robert F. Kennedy’s presidential campaign and life were cut short on June 5, 1968. After winning the California primary, Kennedy was shot at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles by Sirhan Sirhan, a 24-year-old Palestinian immigrant.
Kennedy was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of June 6, 1968, at the age of 42. His death shocked the nation and the world, coming just two months after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and less than five years after the assassination of his brother, President John F. Kennedy.
Key Achievements of Robert F. Kennedy
Throughout his career, Robert F. Kennedy made significant contributions to American politics and society:
1. Civil Rights: Played a crucial role in advancing civil rights legislation and enforcement
2. Organized Crime: Significantly increased prosecutions against organized crime syndicates
3. Poverty Awareness: Brought national attention to issues of poverty and economic inequality
4. Youth Engagement: Inspired a generation of young people to become involved in politics and public service
5. Foreign Policy: Contributed to the peaceful resolution of the Cuban Missile Crisis
Legacy of Robert F. Kennedy
Robert F. Kennedy’s legacy continues to influence American politics and society:
1. Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights: Founded in 1968 to carry on his vision of a more just and peaceful world
2. Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building: The main Justice Department building in Washington, D.C. was renamed in his honor in 2001
3. Robert F. Kennedy Bridge: The Triborough Bridge in New York City was renamed after him in 2008
4. Political Inspiration: Many politicians cite RFK as an inspiration, including President Barack Obama
Robert F. Kennedy’s speeches, particularly his extemporaneous remarks on the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and his “Ripple of Hope” speech in South Africa, continue to be studied and admired for their eloquence and moral clarity.
Robert F. Kennedy in Popular Culture
The life and legacy of Robert F. Kennedy have been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and films:
1. “Robert Kennedy and His Times” (1985 TV miniseries)
2. “Bobby” (2006 film)
3. “RFK” (2002 film)
4. “The Kennedy Brothers: A Hardball Documentary” (2009)
5. “Robert F. Kennedy: A Memoir” by Jack Newfield (1969)
These works have helped to keep Robert F. Kennedy’s memory alive and introduce new generations to his ideas and impact.
Robert F. Kennedy’s Impact on Modern Politics
Many of the issues that Robert F. Kennedy championed remain relevant today:
1. Economic Inequality: His focus on poverty and economic justice resonates in current debates about income inequality
2. Civil Rights: The ongoing struggle for racial equality builds on the foundation laid by RFK and his contemporaries
3. Gun Control: The debate over gun control legislation continues, with many advocates citing RFK’s support for stricter laws
4. Youth Engagement: His ability to inspire young people to engage in politics and public service remains a model for modern politicians.
Final Thoughts of Robert F. Kennedy
Robert F. Kennedy’s life, though tragically cut short, left an indelible mark on American history. His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and compassion continue to inspire politicians and activists today. From his work as Attorney General to his brief but impactful career in the Senate, RFK demonstrated the power of moral leadership and the importance of standing up for the marginalized and disenfranchised.
As we reflect on Robert F. Kennedy’s legacy, we are reminded of his famous quote: “Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope.” These words encapsulate the enduring impact of RFK’s life and work, serving as a call to action for future generations to continue the fight for a more just and equitable society.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What were Robert F. Kennedy’s major accomplishments as Attorney General?
As Attorney General, Robert F. Kennedy’s major accomplishments included strong support for civil rights enforcement, significantly increasing prosecutions against organized crime, playing a crucial role in resolving the Cuban Missile Crisis, and overseeing the Department of Justice during a pivotal time in American history.
2. How did Robert F. Kennedy die?
Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated on June 5, 1968, in Los Angeles, California. He was shot by Sirhan Sirhan at the Ambassador Hotel shortly after giving a speech celebrating his victory in the California Democratic primary. Kennedy died in the early hours of June 6, 1968, at the age of 42.
3. What was Robert F. Kennedy’s stance on the Vietnam War?
Robert F. Kennedy initially supported the Vietnam War during his time as Attorney General and early Senate career. However, by 1967, he became an outspoken critic of the war, calling for a negotiated settlement and the withdrawal of American troops. This stance was a key part of his 1968 presidential campaign.
4. How did Robert F. Kennedy contribute to the Civil Rights Movement?
Robert F. Kennedy was a strong advocate for civil rights. As Attorney General, he enforced desegregation orders and supported civil rights legislation. He worked closely with civil rights leaders and used federal power to protect civil rights activists. In the Senate, he continued to champion civil rights causes and became a voice for marginalized communities.
5. What is the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights?
The Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights, founded in 1968, is a nonprofit charitable organization that works to realize Robert F. Kennedy’s dream of a more just and peaceful world. The center partners with human rights leaders to support meaningful social change, championing changemakers and pursuing strategic litigation on key human rights issues.