Aristotle Onassis was a man of contrasts. To some, he represented the ideal of the self-made businessman who transformed his circumstances through determination, intelligence, and ambition. To others, he was a controversial figure whose personal relationships and extravagant lifestyle attracted endless public curiosity. His romantic relationships were especially influential in shaping his public image. His marriage to Athina Livanos connected him to the established Greek shipping aristocracy. His relationship with Maria Callas brought together two internationally celebrated Greek personalities.
Finally, his marriage to Jacqueline Kennedy connected his name permanently with one of the most important political families in modern American history. These relationships also revealed the difficulties of his private life. Although he possessed enormous wealth, he experienced marital breakdowns, family conflict, and the devastating loss of his son. The marriages and relationships of Aristotle Onassis were more than personal events. They reflected the social and cultural environment of the twentieth century, when wealthy businessmen, celebrities, politicians, and members of influential families frequently moved within the same international circles.
