Résumé:
The present dissertation examines how driven by their ambition, the Kennedys achieved degrees
of national and global prominence in their lifetimes. This study assesses both the positive and
negative dimensions of the Kennedys legacy associated with their attempt to rise to the
presidency. It traces their Irish roots, upbringing and exposure to politics by their ambitious
father. The research depicts how Joseph P. Kennedy, who had high expectations for each of his
children, was eager to gain enough wealth and influence to protect his family from the uneasy
and hostile currents he experienced as a young Irish Catholic in Harvard and Brahmin
Boston. This became his life's goal, inspiring him to make his son the country's first Irish-
Catholic president. The dissertation then provides an in depth coverage of each Kennedy
contribution to American history. It also highlights the traits that they have had since they were
young: a desire to serve the public and a drive to succeed; bravery in the face of adversity and a
determination to triumph; awareness of the public's pulse and the ability to quicken it.
Furthermore, the research outlines the devastating tragedies that haunted the Kennedys, from
bootlegging rumors to mental retardation, plane crashes to assassinations. Based on an
examination of historic, sociological, psychological studies and scholarly documents, this work
investigates why the Kennedys have been subjected to such calamities and tragedies, most
importantly, it explores the underlying pattern that governs the Kennedy “curse”. Enough has
been written, and will be written about the Kennedys, yet the aim is not to repeat a recitation of
their history but to trace the evolution of their philosophy, to draw a personal and a national way
of life from those lives and deeds that can meaningfully inspire the Algerian youth. It is a legacy
for all those, who seek a newer world, a fresh start.
