The Kennedy family’s wealth and glamour—as well as their extensive and continuing commitment to public service—has elevated them to iconic status over the past half-century and led to their reputation as “America’s Royal Family.”

But for all of the family’s power and influence in the United States and around the world, they have suffered through some of the greatest personal and public tragedies.

These events and their impact on the lives of the Kennedy family are known as The Kennedy Curse.