Hometown: Hyannis Port Born: February 22, 1932; Boston, Mass. Religion: Roman Catholic Family: Wife, Victoria Reggie Kennedy; three children, two stepchildren Education: International Law School, The Hague (The Netherlands), attended 1958; Harvard graduate - B.A. 1956 (government); University of Virginia law school graduate - LL.B. 1959 Military Service: Army, 1951-53 Career: Lawyer Elected: 1962-U.S. Senate Political Highlights: Suffolk County assistant district attorney, 1961-62; sought Democratic nomination for president, 1980; Awarded Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama, Aug. 12, 2009.
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Edward Kennedy Timeline
Massachusetts Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, the liberal lion of the Senate, has died after battling a brain tumor. He was 77.
Kennedy's family announced his death in a brief statement released early Wednesday.
For nearly a half-century in the Senate, Kennedy was a dominant voice on health care, civil rights, war and peace, and more. To the American public, though, he was best known as the last surviving brother of a storied political family.
"Edward M. Kennedy - the husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle we loved so deeply - died late Tuesday night at home in Hyannis Port. We've lost the irreplaceable center of our family and
joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever. We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness and opportunity for all. He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it. He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it's hard to imagine any of them without him."
President Barack Obama:
Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy. For five decades, virtually every major piece of legislation to advance the civil rights, health and economic well-being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts. I valued his wise counsel in the Senate, where, regardless of the swirl of events, he always had time for a new colleague. I cherished his confidence and momentous support in my race for the presidency. And even as he waged a valiant struggle with a mortal illness, I've profited as president from his encouragement and wisdom. An important chapter in our history has come to an end. Our country has lost a great leader, who picked up the torch of his fallen brothers and became the greatest United States Senator of our time. And the Kennedy family has lost their patriarch, a tower of strength and support through good times and bad. Our hearts and prayers go out to them today - to his wonderful
wife, Vicki, his children Ted Jr., Patrick and Kara, his grandchildren and his extended family.
Cardinal O'Malley:
"Today we mourn the passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy and we extend our heartfelt prayers and sincere condolences to his wife Victoria and their children, Kara, Edward, Patrick, Curran and Caroline. Senator Kennedy was blessed with a dedicated and loving family who stood by his side, particularly during the past year as he faced his illness with courage, dignity and strength.
We join with his colleagues in Congress and the people of Massachusetts in reflecting on his life and his commitment to public service. For nearly half a century, Senator Kennedy was often a champion for the poor, the less fortunate and those seeking a better life. Across Massachusetts and the nation, his legacy will be carried on through the lives of those he served.
We pray for the repose of his soul and that his family finds comfort and consolation in this difficult time."
Rep. James Langevin, D-R.I.:
"I had the privilege of first meeting Senator Edward Kennedy in the late 1980s while a college intern for Senator Claiborne Pell. I have always been impressed with Senator Kennedy's life long commitment to public service and, in particular, his passion for making a difference in the lives of our nation's most vulnerable citizens. He firmly believed that all individuals have the right to fulfill their God-given potential. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Kennedy family, especially my friend and colleague, Congressman Patrick Kennedy."
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.:
"Senator Kennedy for me, as for so many other Americans, was the very epitome of a modern Senator. A proud New Englander, he was passionate in pursuit of justice and compassionate for his fellow man. Senator Kennedy was a gracious mentor to me as a new Senator, and a treasured and respected friend. For his family, his constituents, and the rest of our nation, and for the United States Senate, which he made his home, my heart is heavy today at the loss of his booming voice, his rollicking humor, his masterful legislative skills and his lion's heart."
The Kennedy family has been prominent in American politics since the early 20th century
Generations of family members continue to be guided by these famous words, "Ask not what you're country can do for you -- ask what you can do for your country."
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