Introduction
In her latest book, “Ask Not: The Kennedys and the Women They Destroyed,” New York Times bestselling author Maureen Callahan delivers a searing indictment of the Kennedy family’s generations-long legacy of misogyny, abuse, and exploitation. Through meticulous research and powerful storytelling, Callahan peels back the carefully constructed veneer of the Kennedy myth to expose the disturbing pattern of violence and trauma inflicted upon the women in their orbit. This book is not just a recounting of historical events; it is a call to confront uncomfortable truths about power, privilege, and the often-overlooked narratives of women.
Summary
“Ask Not” serves as a character-driven exposé that seeks to restore the voices of the women who have long been overshadowed by the Kennedy name. From Jacqueline Onassis and Marilyn Monroe to Carolyn Bessette, Martha Moxley, Mary Jo Kopechne, and Rosemary Kennedy, Callahan brings their stories to light, paying homage to those who managed to break free and giving voice to those who could not.
The book begins with a deep dive into the patriarch, Joseph P. Kennedy Sr., a man described as “financially and sexually rapacious.” He built the family’s fortune and legacy while engaging in numerous extramarital affairs, setting a precedent for the behavior that would be mirrored by his sons. Callahan chronicles the abusive behavior of the Kennedy men across generations, from John F. Kennedy’s numerous affairs and public humiliation of his wife to Ted Kennedy’s legendary drunkenness and womanizing.
Key Events
One of the most shocking revelations in “Ask Not” is the family’s role in the murder of Martha Moxley, for which Kennedy cousin Michael Skakel was convicted. The verdict was later vacated, raising questions about the family’s influence and the justice system’s integrity. Callahan also delves into the tragic stories of Mary Jo Kopechne, who died in Ted Kennedy’s car after he drove drunk and left her to suffocate, and Pamela Kelley, who was paralyzed for life after a Kennedy cousin threw her from a Jeep.
These narratives are not just isolated incidents; they represent a broader pattern of disregard for women’s lives and well-being. Callahan skillfully weaves together the stories of these women, creating a powerful narrative that challenges the myth of Camelot and exposes the dark underbelly of the Kennedy legacy.
Plots
Callahan’s exploration begins with Rosemary Kennedy, the mentally disabled sister of John, Robert, and Ted. Rosemary was subjected to a lobotomy at the age of 23, a decision made by her father that would haunt the family for generations. Her story is emblematic of the Kennedy family’s treatment of women, where personal ambition often overshadowed compassion and care.
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, often romanticized as the elegant First Lady, is portrayed as a woman who endured public humiliation and personal betrayal. Callahan reveals the extent of Jack’s infidelities and the emotional toll they took on Jacqueline. Despite her grace under pressure, Jacqueline’s life was marred by the constant shadow of her husband’s behavior, illustrating the sacrifices made by women in the name of family and legacy.
Marilyn Monroe, another iconic figure associated with the Kennedys, is depicted not just as a glamorous starlet but as a woman who suffered under the weight of her relationships with powerful men. Callahan explores Monroe’s tragic life and her connection to JFK, emphasizing how her vulnerability was exploited by the very men who claimed to adore her.
The book also highlights Carolyn Bessette, who married John F. Kennedy Jr. and became a media sensation in her own right. Callahan examines the pressures placed on Carolyn by the Kennedy legacy and the intense scrutiny she faced as a member of the family. Despite her desire for privacy, Carolyn’s life was forever intertwined with the expectations and demands of being a Kennedy.
Themes
The central theme of “Ask Not” is the Kennedy men’s rampant misogyny and the devastating consequences it has had on the women in their lives. Callahan’s incisive prose and meticulous research make a compelling case that the Kennedy men’s legacy is one of misogyny, abuse, and trauma. By restoring the women to the center of the story, she not only pays homage to their resilience but also gives voice to those who have long been silenced.
Another key theme is the perverse double standard that has allowed the Kennedy men’s abusive behavior to persist for generations. Callahan argues that the family’s wealth, power, and influence have shielded them from accountability, with the media and justice system often complicit in their crimes. This complicity extends to the public’s perception of the Kennedys, who have long been viewed through a romanticized lens that ignores their darker actions.
Callahan also critiques the media’s role in perpetuating the Kennedy myth. The press has historically glamorized the family, often overlooking or downplaying their misdeeds. This selective reporting has allowed the Kennedys to maintain their status as American royalty while the stories of the women they harmed remained buried. Callahan’s book serves as a corrective to this narrative, urging readers to confront the realities behind the glamour.
Conclusion
“Ask Not” is a bold and necessary reckoning with the Kennedy family’s history of violence and exploitation. Callahan’s incisive analysis and compelling storytelling make a strong case that the myth of Camelot is built upon the suffering of countless women and girls. As Callahan writes, “The Kennedy name has long been synonymous with wealth, power, glamor, and—above all else—integrity. But this carefully constructed veneer hides a dark truth.”
With this book, she shatters that veneer and forces us to confront the harsh realities of the Kennedy legacy. Callahan’s work is a powerful call to action, urging us to confront the uncomfortable truths about the Kennedy family and the broader culture that has enabled their abusive behavior. By shining a light on the women who have been silenced and forgotten, she reminds us of the importance of listening to and believing survivors of abuse and violence.
In the end, “Ask Not” is a testament to the resilience and courage of the women who have dared to speak out against the Kennedy men’s misogyny and abuse. It is a reminder that even the most powerful families cannot escape the consequences of their actions, and that the truth will always find a way to come to light. Callahan’s book is a must-read for anyone who cares about justice, equality, and the power of storytelling to change the world.
By challenging the narrative surrounding the Kennedys, Callahan not only honors the lives of the women affected but also encourages a broader dialogue about the treatment of women in society. “Ask Not” is more than just a historical account; it is a poignant reminder that the stories of women matter and that their voices must be heard.
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Ask Not: The Kennedys and the Women They Destroyed
