Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Net Worth – How Much is Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Worth?

Jacqueline Lee (Bouvier) Kennedy Onassis, also known as Jackie Kennedy, had a net worth of $150 million at the time of her death in 1994. Her net worth is equivalent to approximately $270 million in today’s dollars. She was the widow of President John F. Kennedy and served as the First Lady of the United States from 1961 until JFK’s assassination in 1963. She was a philanthropist and an influential figure in American history. In this article, we will explore the scope of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ net worth, assets, and legacy.

Key Takeaways:

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis had a net worth of $150 million at the time of her death in 1994.
Her net worth is equivalent to approximately $270 million in today’s dollars.
She was the widow of President John F. Kennedy and served as the First Lady of the United States.
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was a philanthropist and an influential figure in American history.

Early Life and Education

Jacqueline Lee Bouvier, born on July 28, 1929, in Southampton, New York, experienced a childhood filled with financial ups and downs. Her father, John Vernou “Black Jack” Bouvier, was a successful stockbroker on Wall Street, which brought prosperity to the family. Unfortunately, her parents’ divorce and her father’s reckless gambling and alcohol addiction led to the loss of their family fortune.

Despite the challenging financial circumstances, young Jackie discovered a passion for horses and dedicated herself to equestrianism. Her love for horses would become an influential part of her life and bring her joy throughout her journey.

Jackie received her education at the prestigious Chapin School in New York, where she honed her intellectual capabilities and refined her social skills. These formative years would later contribute to her grace and poise as a public figure.

Continuing her academic pursuits, Jackie went on to attend The George Washington University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in French literature. This educational foundation would shape her cultural understanding and appreciation, proving valuable in her later endeavors.

Jackie’s early life experiences and education provided her with the resilience, intellectual acumen, and cultural sensibilities that would shape her future as a prominent figure in American history.

Marriage to JFK and First Lady Role

Jackie Kennedy married John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, in 1953. As the First Lady, Jackie was known for her impeccable fashion sense, her role in planning White House social events, and her restoration of the interior of the White House. She was highly regarded by international dignitaries and played a significant role in shaping JFK’s presidency.

One of the most memorable aspects of Jackie Kennedy’s tenure as First Lady was her exquisite fashion choices. Her style became iconic, inspiring women across the nation. From her elegant gowns to her famous pillbox hats, Jackie’s sense of fashion was unmatched.

Jackie also dedicated herself to planning memorable social events at the White House. She hosted talented musicians, artists, and intellectuals, making the White House a hub of culture and sophistication. Her efforts to promote the arts and support education left a lasting impact.

Furthermore, Jackie took a hands-on approach to restoring the interior of the White House, aiming to preserve its historical significance. She worked closely with renowned decorators and historians to ensure the White House reflected its rich heritage.

Despite her short-lived time as First Lady, tragically cut short by JFK’s assassination in 1963, Jackie Kennedy’s legacy endures as a symbol of grace, elegance, and cultural influence. Her contributions to shaping JFK’s presidency and her impact on fashion and the arts continue to inspire generations.

Notable Quotes:

“I want to live my life, not record it.”

“Pearls are always appropriate.”

Key Aspects
Highlights

Fashion
– Impeccable style and iconic fashion choices
– Signature pillbox hats and elegant gowns

Social Events
– Hosted musicians, artists, and intellectuals at the White House
– Fostered a vibrant cultural atmosphere

White House Restoration
– Led efforts to preserve and restore the historical significance of the White House
– Collaborated with experts in decoration and history

Marriage to Aristotle Onassis

After the tragic death of her first husband, Jackie Kennedy Onassis found herself at the center of media attention once again when she married Greek shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis in 1968. This union brought together two influential figures and captured the public’s fascination.

Through her marriage to Onassis, Jackie gained access to a world of opulence and luxury. With his vast wealth, Onassis lavished her with extravagant gifts and provided her with a life of utmost comfort. Jackie enjoyed the privilege of owning multiple properties around the world, including a luxurious private island, Skorpios, in Greece.

However, as time went on, the fairytale began to fade. The marriage faced its fair share of challenges, and the couple eventually separated. Despite the end of their relationship, Jackie’s time with Aristotle Onassis further enhanced her financial standing and enriched her life with unique experiences and opportunities.

Jackie Kennedy Onassis’ Assets

Throughout her life, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis amassed a considerable amount of assets from various sources. Her marriage to Aristotle Onassis significantly contributed to her wealth, allowing her to enjoy a privileged lifestyle and acquire valuable properties.

Here are some key assets associated with Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis:

Assets
Description

Global Properties
Through her marriage to Aristotle Onassis, Jackie gained ownership of properties in Greece, including the private island of Skorpios.

Luxury Gifts
Onassis showered Jackie with lavish gifts, including expensive jewelry and designer garments.

Family Trust
Jackie received approximately $200,000 in annual income from a Kennedy family trust, providing her with financial security.

“Marriage to Aristotle Onassis brought Jackie access to an unparalleled world of wealth and privilege. From luxurious properties to extravagant gifts, her assets reflected her elevated status in society.”

While the marriage to Aristotle Onassis may not have had a happily-ever-after ending, it undoubtedly left an enduring impact on Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ financial status and added to her overall wealth.

Death and Estate

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis passed away in 1994 after battling non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. In her will, she left most of her assets to her two children, Caroline and John F. Kennedy Jr. Her estate was initially estimated to be worth $43.7 million, although some reports suggested it could be as high as $73 million. However, after distributing specific bequests, paying administrative expenses, and settling estate taxes, the estate had a shortfall of $5 million, making it unlikely that the C & J Foundation, a charitable trust Jackie had envisioned, would be created.

Estimated Value of Estate
Initial Estimate
High Estimate

43.7 million
$43.7 million
$73 million

Despite the financial status of the estate, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis left a lasting legacy through her philanthropic endeavors, cultural contributions, and influence on fashion. Her impact on American history and society extends far beyond her financial wealth.

Sources of Wealth

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis accumulated her wealth through various means. She inherited a significant portion from her father’s inheritance, although her parents’ divorce and her father’s financial mismanagement led to a loss of the family fortune. Her marriages to President John F. Kennedy and Aristotle Onassis further contributed to her wealth. Additionally, Jackie worked as an editor for Viking Press, earning a salary of $200 per week. She was also known for her writing and published a book titled “One Special Summer” based on her travels with her sister.

Through these various sources, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was able to establish a substantial estate. Let’s take a closer look at the value of her estate and the assets she accumulated throughout her life.

Source of Wealth
Details

Inheritance
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis inherited a significant portion of her wealth from her father’s inheritance. However, due to her parents’ divorce and her father’s financial mismanagement, the family fortune was significantly reduced.

Marriages
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis married President John F. Kennedy and Aristotle Onassis, both of whom were wealthy individuals. These marriages contributed to her overall net worth and provided her with access to a life of luxury and financial security.

Editorial Career
While working as an editor for Viking Press, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis earned a salary of $200 per week. Her career in the publishing industry added to her financial resources and provided a steady income.

Writing
Jackie was also a talented writer and published a book titled “One Special Summer,” which chronicled her travels with her sister. This publication further contributed to her wealth and showcased her creative talent.

Philanthropy and Charitable Contributions

Despite the shortfall in her estate, Jackie Kennedy Onassis was dedicated to giving back through philanthropic endeavors throughout her life. One of her notable contributions was the establishment of the C & J Foundation, which aimed to support various charities for 24 years before dissolving the foundation and passing on the remaining funds to her grandchildren.

However, financial decisions made by her children, Caroline and John F. Kennedy Jr., resulted in insufficient funds remaining in the estate to fulfill Jackie’s vision for the foundation. Instead, the estate made charitable donations valued at $449,000, primarily in the form of property donated to the John F. Kennedy Library.

“I believe that if you have been blessed with success, you have a responsibility to give back and help those in need.” – Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

Throughout her life, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was committed to making a positive difference. Her charitable contributions served as a testament to her compassion and desire to uplift others.

Donations from the Estate:

Recipient
Value of Donation

John F. Kennedy Library
$300,000 (property)

National Symphony Orchestra
$75,000 (property)

Metropolitan Museum of Art
$33,000 (property)

Other charities
$41,000 (monetary)

As demonstrated, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis allocated a significant portion of her estate towards charitable causes, ensuring her legacy of giving back and making a positive impact in society.

Image: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, a philanthropist who dedicated her wealth to charitable causes.

Legacy and Contributions

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis has left an indelible mark on political and cultural life in the United States. As First Lady, her influence extended beyond her role as the President’s wife. Her grace, style, and intelligence captivated the nation, making her an admired and influential figure.

Later in life, Jacqueline pursued a career in writing and editing, solidifying her contributions to the literary world. She embraced her passion for literature and worked as an editor at Viking Press, where she made significant contributions to the publishing industry.

“Even though people may be well known, they hold in their hearts the emotions of a simple person for the moments that are the most important of those we know on earth: birth, marriage and death.” – Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

Her impact on fashion and cultural iconography continues to be celebrated today. Jacqueline’s timeless style and elegant fashion choices have inspired generations, cementing her status as a fashion icon.

Overall, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ legacy is one of grace, intellect, and cultural influence. Her personal and professional contributions continue to resonate, making her a treasured part of American history.

The Legacy of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

Contributions
Impact

Shaping her husband’s presidency
Influential political figure

Contributions to the literary world
Respected editor and writer

Fashion and cultural influence
Iconic style and lasting impact

Auction of Personal Possessions

In 1996, Jackie’s children, Caroline and John F. Kennedy Jr., conducted an auction of their mother’s personal possessions. The auction included nearly 6,000 items and generated a total of $34.5 million. The highest-priced item sold was Jackie’s diamond engagement ring, given to her by Aristotle Onassis, which fetched $2.6 million. The proceeds from the auction further added to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ financial legacy.

This auction showcased the enduring appeal and value of the personal belongings of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. It provided a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a piece of history associated with one of America’s most iconic figures. With each item finding a new owner, the auction celebrated the legacy and continued influence of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.

The auction’s success not only highlighted the financial value of these possessions but also served as a testament to the enduring fascination with Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and her significant role in American history. Through the sale of her personal items, her impact and influence continue to resonate with people around the world.

Conclusion

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was an influential figure in American history with a remarkable financial profile. At the time of her death, she had a net worth of $150 million, accumulated through various sources such as inheritances, marriages, and her career as an editor.

Despite facing a shortfall in her estate, Jackie’s contributions to philanthropy, cultural life, and fashion continue to be celebrated. She left a lasting legacy as the First Lady of the United States, shaping her husband’s presidency and being admired for her grace, style, and intelligence.

Jackie’s wealth and iconic status make her one of the wealthiest women of her time. Her financial success, along with her philanthropic endeavors, solidifies her place as a trailblazer and an inspiration to many. She will always be remembered as an influential woman who left a significant impact on American society.

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