Jean Kennedy Smith dies at 92, last surviving sibling of JFK and former U.S. ambassador to Ireland

Jean Kennedy Smith, the last surviving sibling of President John F. Kennedy, died Wednesday at her home in Manhattan. She was 92.

Smith served as the United States ambassador to Ireland in the 1990s during the effort to formalize a peace agreement between the various sects in Northern Ireland who had spent decades imbued in violent conflict. 

Smith was the first woman from the famous American clan to assume a serious political role, though many in Washington and Smith's own social circle doubted the diplomatic legitimacy of her appointment by President Bill Clinton.

However, the Irish people, who had adored her brother, took warmly to Smith, embracing her political role and making her a household name in the country.

"The Irish people were willing to take me at face value, to give me the benefit of the doubt because I was a Kennedy," said Smith in the late 90s. 

The first-time diplomat played an integral role in negotiating a peace deal (on multiple occasions) between the I.R.A. and the British military. 

Prior to her role in public service, Smith engaged with the Kennedy family's philanthropic efforts, in addition to playing supporting roles during the political campaigns of her many brothers.

Smith was also responsible for introducing her friend and future first-lady Jacqueline Bouvier to her brother John. 

She is survived by her four children and six grandchildren.