Ted Kennedy

Easton Press Ted Kennedy books

America Back on Track - signed first edition - 2006

Ted Kennedy: Scenes From An Epic Life by Michael T. Kaufman - Not a Signed Edition - 2009

 

 

 

Edward (Ted) Kennedy biography

Edward Moore Kennedy, often referred to as Ted Kennedy, was born on February 22, 1932, in Boston, Massachusetts, into one of America's most prominent political families. He was the youngest of nine children born to Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy. From an early age, Ted was immersed in the world of politics, with his father serving as a prominent businessman, diplomat, and later as U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom. After graduating from Harvard University in 1956, Ted Kennedy pursued a career in law, attending the University of Virginia Law School before returning to Massachusetts to work as an assistant district attorney. However, his aspirations soon turned to public service, and in 1962, he was elected to the United States Senate in a special election to fill the seat left vacant by his brother John F. Kennedy, who had been elected President of the United States.

Over the course of his nearly 47-year tenure in the Senate, Ted Kennedy emerged as one of the most influential and respected legislators in American history. He was a passionate advocate for progressive causes, including civil rights, healthcare reform, immigration reform, and education. Throughout his career, he authored or co-sponsored over 2,500 bills, many of which became landmark pieces of legislation. One of Kennedy's most enduring legacies was his advocacy for universal healthcare. He championed efforts to expand access to healthcare for all Americans and was a key architect of several major healthcare reforms, including the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Kennedy also played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the areas of arms control and human rights. He was a staunch opponent of the Vietnam War and later became a leading voice for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation efforts.

Despite his many accomplishments, Kennedy's political career was not without controversy. He faced personal and political challenges, including the infamous Chappaquiddick incident in 1969, in which a car he was driving plunged off a bridge, resulting in the death of his passenger, Mary Jo Kopechne. Despite setbacks and personal tragedy, including the deaths of his brothers John and Robert, Ted Kennedy remained dedicated to public service until his passing on August 25, 2009. He was remembered as a tireless champion for the disadvantaged, a skilled legislator, and a passionate advocate for social justice and equality.

Ted Kennedy's contributions to American politics and society were vast and enduring. He left behind a legacy of compassion, integrity, and public service that continues to inspire generations of Americans to work for a better and more just world.
 

 

America Back on Track

In this work, Ted Kennedy presents his vision for revitalizing and renewing the United States, tackling pressing issues such as healthcare, education, the economy, and America's role in the world.

Drawing on his decades of experience in public service, Kennedy outlines a comprehensive agenda for addressing the challenges facing the nation and offers practical solutions for moving forward. He emphasizes the importance of bipartisan cooperation, civic engagement, and inclusive policymaking in achieving progress and building a brighter future for all Americans. Throughout the book, Kennedy shares personal anecdotes, insights from his political career, and reflections on the values and principles that have guided his work. America Back on Track serves as a call to action for citizens, policymakers, and leaders to come together in pursuit of common goals and to reclaim the promise of America as a land of opportunity, equality, and justice for all.

As one of the final works by Senator Edward M. Kennedy before his passing in 2009, America Back on Track stands as a testament to his enduring commitment to public service and his unwavering belief in the power of democracy to effect positive change in the world.

 

Ted Kennedy: Scenes From An Epic Life

Ted Kennedy: Scenes from an Epic Life offers a comprehensive and nuanced portrait of one of America's most influential political figures. Drawing on extensive research and interviews with Kennedy's family, friends, and colleagues, Michael T. Kaufman traces Kennedy's journey from his early years as the youngest son of Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy to his emergence as a towering figure in American politics.

The book explores Kennedy's complex relationship with his famous family, including his brothers John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy, and examines the impact of their legacies on his own political career. Kaufman delves into Kennedy's personal struggles and triumphs, including his battles with health issues, his failed presidential campaign in 1980, and his role as the patriarch of the Kennedy clan following the deaths of his brothers. Through a series of vividly drawn scenes, Kaufman chronicles Kennedy's political evolution, from his early years in the Senate to his leadership on key legislative initiatives, such as healthcare reform, civil rights, and immigration. He also examines Kennedy's relationships with fellow lawmakers, his reputation as a skilled negotiator and consensus-builder, and his enduring commitment to social justice and public service.

Ted Kennedy: Scenes from an Epic Life paints a nuanced portrait of a complex and influential figure in American history. It offers readers a deeper understanding of Kennedy's legacy and the impact of his work on shaping the course of American politics and society. With its rich detail and insightful analysis, the book stands as a testament to Kennedy's enduring influence and his indelible mark on the nation he served for nearly five decades.