The Kennedy name has long been synonymous with wealth, power, glamour, and, above all, integrity. However, beneath this carefully cultivated facade lies a troubling reality: a consistent pattern of physical and psychological abuse of women and girls by Kennedy men, resulting in a trail of devastation and tragedy across generations. Over decades, from one scandal to the nextranging from sexual assaults to character assassinations, from suicides to manslaughterthe family and their supporters have diligently shielded the Kennedy legacy from tarnish.
In her revealing book "Ask Not," acclaimed author and journalist Maureen Callahan unveils the concealed history of violence and exploitation within the Kennedy dynasty. She exposes their unapologetic sexism and widespread moral corruption while also rightfully positioning the women and girls affected at the heart of the family's narrative. From iconic figures like Jacqueline Onassis and Marilyn Monroe to lesser-known names such as Carolyn Bessette, Martha Moxley, Mary Jo Kopechne, and Rosemary Kennedy, Callahan meticulously restores these individuals to prominence, highlighting their overlooked roles and the profound impact of their experiences within the Kennedy saga.