Robert F. Kennedy: A Life in Public Service
On November 20, 1925, Robert Francis Kennedy was born in Brookline, Massachusetts. His life would take him from a large, politically active family to some of the most demanding jobs in the United States government. As attorney general, a senator, and a presidential candidate, he took part in national debates about civil rights, poverty, and war. His career also included controversial decisions, and his life ended during a period of political violence.
Robert, often called Bobby, was one of nine children born to Joseph and Rose Kennedy. His older brother John F. Kennedy later became president. Robert served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, attended Harvard University, and earned a law degree from the University of Virginia. He married Ethel Skakel, and they had eleven children.
Before holding elected office, Kennedy worked as a lawyer for the federal government and on congressional investigations. One investigation examined corruption and wrongdoing involving labor unions and businesses. These hearings brought him national attention. They also gave Americans an early look at his forceful style of questioning, which some admired and others criticized.
Attorney general during a changing nation
- corruption:
- Dishonest use of power for personal gain.
- hearings:
- Formal meetings where officials gather information and listen to testimony.
- unconstitutional:
- Not allowed by the Constitution.
- wiretaps:
- Ways of secretly listening to or recording communications.
- surveillance:
- Close observation of a person or group.
- inadequate:
- Not good enough or not enough for a need.
- negotiate:
- To discuss something in order to reach an agreement.
- candidacy:
- The state of seeking an elected position.
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Preview questions from this passageShowHide
- 1How did Kennedy's work on congressional investigations bring him national attention?
- 2Why did Kennedy's appointment as attorney general draw both support and criticism?
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About this biography passage for Middle School
“Robert F. Kennedy: A Life in Public Service” is a biography reading passage about Robert F. Kennedy and public service, written for Middle School. It takes about 6 minutes to read (961 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.