Today, we remember the Kennedys as an iconic American family - the vanguard of wealth, power, and style, rather than as the descendants of poor immigrants. Based on genealogical breakthroughs and previously unreleased records, this is the first book to explore the inspiring story of the poor Irish refugee couple, Patrick and Bridget Kennedy, who escaped famine, created a life together in a city hostile to Irish, immigrants, and Catholics, and launched the Kennedy dynasty in America.

Introduction -- Prologue -- Bridget the refugee. Bridget's escape ; Bridget at sea ; Bridget on the farm ; Bridget in the city -- Bridget and Patrick. Bridget goes to work ; Bridget gets married ; Bridget the mother ; Bridget the enemy -- Bridget alone. Bridget the widow ; Bridget the servant ; Bridget the hairdresser ; Bridget the grocer -- Bridget and P.J.. P.J. the rascal ; P.J. the longshoreman ; P.J. the bartender ; P.J. the Democrat -- P.J. P.J. the legislator ; P.J. the senator ; P.J. the boss ; P.J. the American -- Epilogue: Joe and John.