This volume explores more than two centuries of literature on the First Ladies, from Martha Washington to Michelle Obama, providing the first historiographical overview of these important women in U.S. history. Underlines the growing scholarly appreciation of the First Ladies and the evolution of the position since the 18th century Explores the impact of these women not only on White House responsibilities, but on elections, presidential policies, social causes, and in shaping their husbands’ legacies Brings the First Ladies into crisp historiographical focus, assessing how these women and their contributions have been perceived both in popular literature and scholarly debate Provides concise biographical treatments for each First Lady

Profiles First Ladies from Martha Washington to Laura Bush, providing portraits and describing each woman's early life, marriage and family, years as First Lady, and legacy; and also includes articles on the roles that the First Lady plays, an annotated bibliography, and contact information for libraries, museums, and historic sites.

Provides profiles of the women who influenced the history of the United States as wives of its presidents.

Short biographies of our nation's fascinating first ladies.

Bringing together the work of notable historians, political scientists, and sociologists, The Presidential Companion: Readings on the First Ladies offers a collection of essays that demonstrate the political relevance of first ladies throughout U.S. history and the dramatic expansion of their power during the twentieth century. With a foreword by Hillary Clinton's former chief of staff, Melanne Verveer, this anthology fills a gap in scholarship about the position of first lady and reveals the political acumen and activism of a number of the holders of this unofficial executive office.

Presents a collection of chronologically arranged entries of America's first ladies, from Martha Washington, to Laura Bush, and includes brief biographical information, as well as explaining their roles and responsibilities in the White House.

Turning to primary sources others have overlooked, Sibley challenges the cliches about Florence Harding's time in the national spotlight. She describes her support for racial equality, lobbying for better treatment for veterans and female prisoners and her lifelong interest in preventing animal cruelty.