This article was originally published on moneytreestudio.com

From Mary Todd Lincoln to Jill Biden, each First Lady has left an indelible mark, blending the roles of hostess and iconic figure while pursuing diverse paths in American politics. Evaluating factors like background, commitment to the nation, accomplishments and public image, and value to the President, we present a concise ranking of 20 well-known First Ladies, from the most esteemed to the least favored.

#1: Eleanor Roosevelt

“She was more liberal than her husband and constantly pushing on civil rights, generally, women’s rights, labor rights.”

Eleanor Roosevelt, despite her initial reluctance to be a First Lady, has cemented her legacy as the most influential in American history. Raised in a community-oriented family, she evolved into a passionate advocate, even before marrying Franklin Delano Roosevelt, where she was a schoolteacher.

Unwavering in her support for progressive causes, including civil rights, low-income housing, women’s rights, and youth employment, she faced relentless opposition. Unlike some First Ladies, Eleanor thrived in the spotlight, hosting weekly press briefings with female journalists, embarking on nationwide tours, engaging in radio broadcasts, and contributing to various publications. Her indomitable spirit forever defines her historic tenure.

Abigail Adams, mother and spouse to two U.S. Presidents, notably John Adams, leveraged her role as First Lady to advance women’s rights and education. She famously urged her husband to “consider the ladies” during the drafting of the Declaration of Independence. Abigail maintained a rigorous daily schedule, starting at 5 a.m., engaging in political debates uncommon for women.

Alongside managing the family farm, overseeing public events, and reviewing her husband’s speeches, she ardently supported the abolition of slavery. Her assertiveness led detractors to dub her “Mrs. President” due to her influential personality and significant impact on her husband, although not all Americans embraced her.

During her tenure as First Lady, Laura Bush, wife of George W. Bush, passionately championed reading programs, following in her mother-in-law’s footsteps, and tirelessly advocated for the well-being of women worldwide. While she didn’t immerse herself in overtly political roles like some predecessors, her impact was undeniable.

With an academic background, she earned a Master’s degree in library sciences in 1973 and subsequently served as a librarian in Austin. Notably, she organized a national book fair featuring American authors and garnered praise for her compassionate support of 9/11 survivors. In 2001, she made history as the first presidential spouse to deliver the White House weekly radio address, addressing the Taliban’s mistreatment of Afghan women.

Lady Bird Johnson stepped into the role of First Lady after the iconic Jackie Kennedy, yet she carved her own place as one of the nation’s most beloved First Ladies. Her tireless efforts in Lyndon B. Johnson’s 1964 presidential campaign, highlighted by her “Lady Bird Special” train tour through Southern states, endeared her to the public.

Lady Bird, a champion of working women, influenced her husband to appoint women to government posts. She ardently advocated for removing eyesores along highways and protecting California redwoods, aiming to beautify the country. She found her passion in the Head Start program, aiding underprivileged preschool children in preparing for their education.

Betty Ford was a formidable personality who fearlessly tackled contentious issues. She openly acknowledged her mental health treatment, championed women’s equality, suggested premarital sex could reduce divorces, and supported the landmark 1973 Supreme Court decision Roe v. Wade.

In 1974, her candid revelation about her battle with breast cancer marked her as one of the first First Ladies to share her health struggles with the public. Betty Ford also confronted drug and alcohol addiction, eventually overcoming it and co-founding the Betty Ford Center for Substance Abuse. In 1991, George H.W. Bush honored her with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her significant contributions to addiction awareness and rehabilitation.

Known as the “Lady Presidentress,” the First Lady of the United States during the War of 1812, Dolley Madison, made a lasting impact. In a daring act during the British invasion, she delayed her escape to safeguard a prized portrait of George Washington and crucial government documents.

Dolley’s influence extended beyond crisis management. She pioneered political dinners, initiated the first White House remodeling, and championed orphan care while actively promoting her husband James’ 1808 presidential campaign. Her legacy epitomized the balance between democratic ideals and White House exclusivity. Dolley introduced weekly open-house events, warmly welcoming all, bridging the gap between the presidency and the people.

Rosalynn Carter broke new ground as First Lady, initiating changes that reshaped the role. She introduced the position of a chief of staff with equal status and pay to West Wing aides and organized the official Office of the First Lady. Rosalynn also assumed a pivotal role in her husband’s political communications.

Unprecedented in her involvement, she championed her husband’s constituents’ ideas, even scheduling weekly business lunches to discuss her work. Actively participating in politics, she attended cabinet meetings, provided counsel to Jimmy Carter, and, in 1977, served as the official presidential ambassador to Latin America.

Jackie Kennedy was far more than an iconic figure and a symbol of tragedy for Americans; she held a profound impact as the youngest First Lady in over 80 years. Upon entering the White House, she undertook a monumental task: revamping and maintaining its interiors.

Jackie established the White House Historical Association and enlisted a Smithsonian curator to catalog its treasures. She expanded the library’s collection, championed civil rights, and supported organizations like the American Cancer Society. A passionate advocate for the arts, she hosted gatherings for academics and artists.

Martha Washington, the very first First Lady of the United States, set the precedent for the role. Her duties included hosting receptions, welcoming visitors, and aiding veterans and the less fortunate. She faithfully stood by her husband’s side during winters in military encampments.

Martha encouraged fellow officers’ wives to support the war effort by saving money and assisting their spouses in any way possible. Despite facing personal tragedy, including the loss of her last son during the Revolutionary War, she adopted two surviving grandsons to fill the void of her own childlessness with George. Though discreet about her political beliefs, she engaged in political discussions and advocated for girls’ education, leaving an enduring legacy.

Edith Roosevelt, President Theodore Roosevelt’s second wife, reshaped the role of First Lady. Pioneering new practices, she became the first to employ a full-time social secretary and unofficially advise her husband. Edith also formalized her responsibilities, a groundbreaking move. Some critics found her approach controlling, particularly when she convened regular meetings of cabinet ministers’ wives to discuss moral standards and party spending limits.

Although perceived as less of a leader, she strategically kept a low profile during her husband’s presidential campaigns and avoided reporters. Nevertheless, her consistently high rankings among First Ladies attest to her significance. Edith’s legacy endures through major White House renovations, expanding family rooms, and preserving portraits and china sets of her predecessors.

Lou Hoover’s reputation as an academic and scholar was well-deserved, with her proficiency in various foreign languages standing out. She frequently graced radio broadcasts, passionately championing diverse causes, particularly volunteerism.

Beyond the political sphere, Lou made a significant impact as a key figure in the Girl Scouts of the United States of America, twice assuming the role of national GSUSA president. Her standing in the eyes of the public was evident in the Siena Research Institute’s 1982 ranking, where she held the 11th spot, a position she continued to maintain with remarkable consistency over time.

Louisa Adams, the inaugural First Lady born outside the U.S., played a pivotal but evolving role in her husband’s political journey. Serving as his unofficial campaign manager, she provided counsel and tirelessly worked to elevate John Quincy Adams’ social standing, steering him toward the presidency. However, once he secured victory, her influence waned, with her involvement limited to hosting official events.

This shift in her role accounts for her comparatively lower rankings in leadership, individuality, and achievements. Louisa harbored a deep disdain for her position as First Lady, even dubbing the White House a “prison.” Nevertheless, her instrumental support proved vital in helping her husband clinch the fiercely contested 1824 election.

Barbara Bush, affectionately dubbed “The National Treasure” by her husband’s aides, enjoyed widespread popularity during her time as First Lady. Her legacy included championing literacy, regular visits to homeless shelters and hospitals, advocating for AIDS awareness, and supporting initiatives for senior citizens. Remarkably, she married at a young age, a rarity among First Ladies.

As a devoted stay-at-home mother, Barbara raised five children while steadfastly supporting her husband’s multifaceted career. Their journey took them through 29 moves before they entered the White House in 1989. While her public persona exuded warmth and grandmotherly charm, some glimpsed a more reserved side to Barbara in private.

Bess Truman faced the daunting task of following in the revered footsteps of Eleanor Roosevelt, yet she held a distinct aversion to the public and political aspects of her role as First Lady. Instead, she quietly served as her husband’s secretary and contributed to his speeches behind the scenes.

Their only child, Margaret, born in 1924, demanded much of her attention as Bess took on the primary caregiving role. In 1949, when it became evident that the White House required extensive repairs, she made the unconventional decision to renovate and restore it rather than opting for the more cost-effective demolition and reconstruction. Unlike her predecessors, she steered clear of meetings with female reporters, maintaining a low-profile approach to her role.

Ellen Wilson’s legacy was steeped in her artistic and imaginative spirit, with a strong educational background in the arts. Her tenure as First Lady was marked by her notorious dedication to creative pursuits—spending hours sketching, painting, and maintaining her own White House studio. Remarkably, she generously donated much of her artwork to charitable causes.

Ellen skillfully navigated the D.C. social scene, hosting unpretentious yet engaging gatherings. One of her primary advocacies centered on improving housing conditions in Washington, especially for Black Americans. Tragically, her time in the White House was cut short by her untimely passing in 1914. History, however, remembers her warmly, ranking her 16th in the Siena Research Institute’s 1982 survey.

Grace Coolidge, ranked 17th in the 1982 Siena Research Institute survey, was widely recognized for her avoidance of political involvement. While her husband delved deeper into the political world, Grace steadfastly maintained her distance. Instead of wading into the currents of contemporary politics, she directed her energies toward causes that resonated with popular sentiment, particularly charitable organizations like the Red Cross.

Amidst personal tragedy, when her son passed away, Grace earned the public’s empathy and admiration. Unfazed, she persevered in her roles and philanthropic endeavors. Even after her husband’s presidency, Grace remained dedicated to nonprofit work, extending her support to various communities, including Jewish refugees and the deaf. Furthermore, she made her mark as a writer and contributor to numerous magazines.

When President Thomas Jefferson’s wife passed away prior to his White House tenure, his daughter, Martha Jefferson Randolph, gracefully stepped into the role of First Lady. Martha’s noteworthy advocacy saw her passionately urging her father to champion the abolition of slavery in America, a cause she embraced through her private education and travels, envisioning a nation without the stain of slavery.

Her extensive time in Paris allowed her to engage with world leaders, further enhancing her diplomatic prowess. Martha’s life exuded opulence, marked by extravagant balls and refined sophistication. During her White House years, Dolley Madison also played a pivotal role in hosting duties. Martha’s enduring impact ranked her 18th in the Siena Research Institute’s 1982 survey.

Sarah Polk’s tenure as First Lady from 1845 to 1849 showcased her exceptional hosting skills and social finesse, assets that not only enriched her husband’s career but also fueled his political aspirations. Known for her elaborate meals and choice of libations, Sarah added a touch of grandeur to White House gatherings.

Behind the scenes, she served as a trusted advisor to her husband, aiding in speechwriting and actively participating in his campaigns. Her involvement extended to writing for newspapers in support of his cause. Sarah staunchly championed the controversial notion of manifest destiny, making her voice heard on this critical matter.

Emily Donelson’s role as First Lady was unique; she assumed the position after the death of her aunt, Rachel Jackson, President Andrew Jackson’s late wife. While her husband served as the president’s assistant, Emily took on the responsibilities of hosting and managing the household.

Emily’s sociable nature even led her to form an unlikely friendship with President Jackson’s rival, John Quincy Adams. However, a notorious rift developed between Emily and the president due to the Peggy Eaton controversy. When Emily declined to return to the White House, President Jackson sought a replacement hostess. In light of these events and the controversial nature of Jackson’s presidency, the 1982 Siena Research Institute survey ranked her 26th among First Ladies.

In 2009, Michelle Obama made history as the first African-American First Lady, leaving an indelible mark. Her initiatives spanned children’s nutrition, education, and fitness, alongside support for military families and LGBTQ rights. Renowned for her individuality, public image, and invaluable role to the President, she ranks among the most admired First Ladies.

Her legacy includes establishing a garden on the White House’s south lawn to champion healthier diets. In recent years, she’s evolved into a best-selling author, captivating public speaker, and engaging podcast host. Notably, she’s made memorable appearances on popular shows like James Corden’s, cementing her influence far beyond her time in the White House.

Dr. Jill Biden boasts a doctoral degree in educational leadership from the University of Delaware and is a dedicated professor, lecturer, and scholar, even as she fulfills her role as First Lady. Her unique position at NOVA marked the first time in U.S. history that a First Lady maintained an independent job while her husband held office.

Dr. Biden’s paramount dedication lies in supporting military families, and she ardently champions free community college and improved educational accessibility. Her presence sparks ongoing political discourse, and while her exact approval rating among the general public remains uncertain, her influence remains undeniable.

In the Siena Research Institute’s 1982 survey, Julia Gardiner Tyler claimed the 27th spot among First Ladies, serving as the nation’s tenth. Julia embraced the traditional role of hostess and social figurehead, prioritizing public and social engagements. Her insistence on the use of “Hail to the Chief” to announce her husband’s arrival is among her notable contributions.

Julia Gardiner Tyler left a lasting legacy through her daughter, Julia Gardiner Tyler Wilson, who later co-founded the Kappa Delta Sorority. Her tenure in the White House culminated with a grand party that welcomed over 3,000 guests, marking the conclusion of her time as First Lady.

Hillary Clinton, a former First Lady and presidential candidate, secures a top spot in the rankings, particularly for her leadership, personal accomplishments, and her crucial role as the President. A Yale-educated lawyer, she delved into policy-making and global advocacy for women’s and children’s rights during her husband Bill Clinton’s presidency.

Her historic journey includes serving as a senator from 2001 to 2007 and later as Secretary of State during Barack Obama’s first term from 2008 to 2013. Hillary is also an accomplished author, a captivating speaker, and a presidential contender in her own right.

Mamie Eisenhower, First Lady during her husband’s presidency, made headlines for her impeccable fashion sense. Her iconic bubblegum pink Nettie Rosenstein inaugural gown remains a Smithsonian treasure and a perennial favorite on “best-dressed” lists. Mamie’s outgoing nature endeared her to large crowds, effortlessly mingling with influential guests.

Though celebrated as a fashion icon, her leadership qualities were less pronounced. Taking her role seriously, she oversaw White House staff, meticulously reviewing their work. Despite her aversion to politics, making only a few invited visits to the White House and avoiding the press, the public held her in high regard. American women, in particular, admired her for her elegance and down-to-earth demeanor.

The former actress, Nancy Reagan, played a pivotal role in her husband Ronald Reagan’s journey to the White House, meticulously overseeing campaign preparations and personnel management. She aimed to restore a sense of glamour after the more “down-home” Ford years, enlisting the help of Letitia Baldrige, Jacqueline Kennedy’s former social secretary.

Critics often accused her of expanding the First Lady’s role into an “associate presidency.” Following her husband’s assassination attempt, the media scrutinized her for donning stylish gowns, initiating an opulent White House renovation, and consulting an astrologist, leading to perceptions of being out of touch. Nancy used her position to raise awareness about drug abuse, even as the Reagan administration faced criticism for cutting federal support for such programs.

Angelica Van Buren, President Van Buren’s daughter-in-law, found herself thrust into the role of First Lady due to the untimely passing of Hannah Van Buren, the President’s late wife. The connection between Angelica and Abraham Van Buren II was facilitated by former First Lady Dolley Madison.

Angelica’s presence held significant political weight for President Van Buren, further strengthening his ties to the Old South. Inspired by her trip to England, Angelica aspired to introduce European stylistic changes to the White House, although these alterations weren’t universally embraced by the American public.

Pat Nixon’s primary aspiration was to be remembered as a President’s wife, and history indeed attracted her to that role. Despite her extensive travels, diplomatic involvement, and vocal advocacy for equal rights, her legacy falls short in terms of leadership, individuality, and accomplishments.

Her credibility suffered, intertwined with her husband Richard’s notorious Watergate scandal. She advised him to erase the damning cassette recordings while they remained private property, a decision that didn’t resonate well with the public. Pat played a vital role in enhancing White House accessibility for the hearing-impaired, physically disabled, and night-shift workers. Critically labeled “Plastic Pat” for her reserved demeanor, she remained unruffled by criticism in interviews, embodying resilience amidst challenges.

Mary Todd Lincoln’s legacy goes beyond being the wife of America’s most renowned president; she remains one of history’s most polarizing First Ladies. Assuming the role just before the Civil War, her Southern roots and Confederate ancestry posed a challenge during turbulent times.

Initially lauded for her social finesse, criticism mounted over her ambitious White House renovations during wartime. Grief marked her life, losing a son to typhoid in 1850, and her eccentricity became evident after Willie’s 1862 death. In 1870, Congress granted her a $3,000 annual pension as the widow of the first assassinated president, equivalent to around $65,000 today. Notorious for her fiery temper and extravagant spending, she faced mental health struggles, spending three months in an institution.

Florence Harding, whose historical legacy consistently places her near the bottom in Siena Research Institute surveys, did not enjoy widespread popularity. Serving as First Lady from 1921 to 1923, she earned the moniker “The Duchess” for her regal demeanor.

Florence was known for hosting opulent and lavish White House soirées. Her advocacy extended to urging her husband to transform the White House into a more accessible and public space for tourists. With her distinct public persona and celebrity status, Florence stood out prominently. Furthermore, she fearlessly voiced her opinions on a wide range of subjects, leaving an indelible mark on history.

Before her husband’s political career, she was primarily known for her modeling and her skincare brand on QVC. Maintaining a low profile, she adopted a cryptic public persona, unlike her recent predecessors, who were more visible in White House operations.

Throughout her husband’s 2016 and 2020 presidential campaigns, she had limited involvement, delivering only one speech at the Republican National Convention. Her “Be Best” anti-cyberbullying campaign faced criticism, given her husband’s suspension from Twitter and other social media platforms due to his online behavior. Intriguingly, her Secret Service nickname, “Muse,” shared the same initial as her husband’s code name, “Mogul.”

Abigail Fillmore assumed the mantle of First Lady from 1850 to 1853, thrust into the role when her husband, Millard Fillmore, ascended to the presidency following President Zachary Taylor’s demise. A teacher and scholar by profession, she was taken aback by the absence of a library within the White House upon their arrival.

Undaunted, Abigail Fillmore championed the cause and secured a Congressional appropriation of $2,000. With this funding, she curated a collection of books, giving birth to the White House library, and inaugurated a captivating literary salon, leaving her mark on the presidential residence.

Eliza Johnson is celebrated as one of America’s most enigmatic First Ladies, known for her unwavering support of her husband’s political career from behind the scenes, preferring the shadows over the limelight. However, her discretion faced a formidable challenge when her husband, then Vice President Andrew Johnson, unexpectedly assumed the presidency following Abraham Lincoln’s tragic assassination.

Despite her new role as First Lady, Eliza Johnson grappled with tuberculosis, confining her to the White House and rendering her mostly bedridden. Her public appearances were exceedingly rare, limited to just two instances during her husband’s term: a reception for Queen Emma of the Kingdom of Hawaii and her husband’s 59th birthday celebration.

Julia Grant stands out as one of the early First Ladies who wholeheartedly embraced the responsibilities of her role. Her deep involvement in her husband’s campaign was such that upon his election, he turned to her with a wry remark, saying, “And now, my dear, I hope you’re satisfied.” Evidently, she was.

Julia Grant excelled as a celebrated hostess during her tenure as First Lady, all while passionately advocating for women’s rights and emphasizing the significance of her position. Her heartache was palpable when she learned that her husband had decided not to seek a third term in office.

Lucy Hayes, the wife of Rutherford B. Hayes, emerges as a groundbreaking First Lady on multiple fronts. In an era when it was highly controversial, she ardently championed African American rights, particularly significant in post-Civil War America.

Furthermore, historian Emily Apt Geer underscores Hayes’ role as a staunch advocate for women’s rights, especially when considering the context of her time.

Lucretia Garfield emerged as a pivotal figure in her husband, James A. Garfield’s, presidential campaign, leveraging her intricate understanding of the inner workings of the Republican Party of her era. Her influence extended to assisting in the selection of cabinet members and orchestrating White House renovations after her husband’s election.

However, a sudden bout of malaria struck her early in her husband’s term, leaving her in recovery when tragedy struck – the assassination of President Garfield in July. Fueled by a deep commitment to honoring his memory, she devoted the remainder of her life to preserving his enduring legacy.

Ida McKinley shares a tragic narrative akin to First Ladies Mary Todd Lincoln and Jackie Kennedy, making her one of the most heartrending figures in American history. Long before her husband, William McKinley, assumed the presidency, Ida’s life was marked by sorrow. The loss of their two daughters, Katherine “Katie” McKinley and Ida McKinley, at a tender age left her shattered.

As First Lady, her husband’s protectiveness shielded her from societal expectations, a role he continued even after ascending to the presidency. The devastating climax arrived with McKinley’s assassination in 1901, dealing Ida yet another profound emotional blow that left her bereft of the will to carry on. Less than six years later, she followed her husband in death.

Helen “Nellie” Taft left an enduring mark on history by orchestrating the planting of 3,020 exquisite Japanese cherry trees around the Tidal Basin and Capitol grounds. Alongside Viscountess Iwa Chinda, the wife of the Japanese ambassador, Nellie personally planted the inaugural saplings during a poignant ceremony on March 27, 1912.

This grand gesture not only added timeless beauty to the capital but also symbolized a lasting bond between nations. Beyond her horticultural legacy, Nellie Taft further enriched White House traditions by elevating receptions and social gatherings to new heights, ensuring they would be cherished customs for years to come.

Edith Wilson’s legacy is a tale of controversy that reverberates through American history. Her marriage to President Woodrow Wilson in 1915, shortly after the passing of his first wife, marked the beginning of her role as First Lady. Initially, Edith was well-received, even becoming the first First Lady to journey to Europe.

However, the trajectory of her legacy dramatically shifted when President Wilson suffered a severe stroke in October 1919, rendering him bedridden and paralyzed. The extent of his ailment was shrouded in secrecy by Edith and his medical team, shielding it from both the public and the government. Edith became the sole conduit between Wilson and his cabinet, sparking claims that she had seized power while she steadfastly maintained that she was acting in accordance with his wishes.

Margaret Taylor’s tenure as First Lady, from 1849 to 1850, coincided with her husband Zachary Taylor’s presidency, tragically cut short by his death just 16 months after taking office due to a stomach ailment. Having spent most of her life in the rugged frontier, Margaret was at odds with the conventional “high-society” expectations associated with the role of First Lady, especially the duty of being the White House hostess.

Preferring seclusion, she often sought refuge on the second floor and limited her public appearances to hosting close friends and family. Margaret Taylor remained largely detached from her husband’s administration, delegating most of her First Lady responsibilities to her daughter, Mary Elizabeth Bliss.

Jane Irwin Harrison assumed the role of First Lady during her father-in-law William Henry Harrison’s brief presidency. Anna Tuthill Harrison, the President’s wife, was too ill to accompany him to the White House for the inauguration, so Jane stepped in as the official hostess during that time.

Tragically, President Harrison succumbed to pneumonia just 31 days after his inauguration, marking the shortest presidency in American history to date. Remarkably, Anna remains the only presidential spouse who never set foot in the Capitol during her husband’s presidency due to her illness.

Mary Elizabeth Bliss, often called “Betty Bliss,” stepped into the role of First Lady as the daughter of President Zachary Taylor and the mentioned First Lady Margaret Taylor. While her mother was disinterested in the social obligations of the position, young Mary Elizabeth, at the age of 24, eagerly embraced the responsibilities of being First Lady.

She took on most of the tasks associated with the role, gladly hosting events and attending to the duties that came with the position. Unlike her mother, Betty Bliss approached her presidential duties with enthusiasm and eagerness during her time at the White House.

Jane Pierce’s time as First Lady coincided with her husband Franklin Pierce’s presidency from 1853 to 1857. Her journey into the role began with mixed emotions, as she had initially been disheartened by her husband’s Democratic Party nomination due to his earlier deception regarding his intention to run for office.

Tragedy struck the Pierce family before their relocation to Washington D.C. when they were involved in a devastating train crash that claimed the life of their last surviving son, Benjamin. This loss cast a long shadow over Jane’s time as First Lady, filling it with profound sadness and mourning.

Letitia Tyler, the wife of the 10th President, John Tyler, found herself thrust into the role of First Lady following the untimely passing of President William Henry Harrison. Her tenure, however, was marked by ongoing health struggles that limited her ability to fulfill traditional first lady hostess duties.

Often confined to a wheelchair and mostly residing in the White House’s upper quarters, Letitia made only a single appearance downstairs during her husband’s presidency. Despite these challenges, she remained deeply involved in White House affairs, serving as a trusted advisor to the President throughout his term.

Sarah Yorke Jackson, daughter-in-law of President Andrew Jackson, played a unique role during his presidency. Following the death of Jackson’s wife, Sarah, along with Jackson’s niece Emily Donelson, assumed the responsibilities of White House hostesses. This unusual arrangement marked the first and only instance in history where two women jointly served in this capacity.

While some accounts suggest a degree of awkwardness, the two women managed to work together seamlessly. Eventually, Sarah Yorke Jackson took on the role entirely, as Emily Donelson fell ill with tuberculosis and tragically passed away in 1836.

Harriet Lane took on the role of acting first lady when her uncle, President James Buchanan, remained unmarried during his presidency. She is often regarded as the prototype for the “modern” first lady, celebrated for her distinctive fashion, captivating personality, and commitment to noble causes.

Harriet Lane’s popularity is often likened to that of Jacqueline Kennedy. In her legacy, she allocated funds to establish a new school within the Washington National Cathedral’s grounds, a testament to her enduring dedication to education and philanthropy.

Elizabeth Monroe assumed the role of first lady during her husband, James Monroe’s presidency, but her chronic health issues led her to delegate many hostess duties to her daughter, Eliza Monroe Hay. In the shadow of her esteemed predecessor, Dolley Madison, Elizabeth faced scrutiny.

The mother-daughter duo, particularly Eliza, was criticized for their attempts to make White House events more socially exclusive, earning them a reputation for pompousness. These challenges marked Elizabeth Monroe’s time as first lady.

Anna Tuthill Harrison faced a tumultuous time when her husband, William Henry Harrison, was elected president in 1840. Anxious about her public reception and ability to fulfill her role as first lady, Anna grappled with these concerns.

Due to her fragile health, she couldn’t accompany the president to Washington for his inauguration, instead sending their daughter-in-law, Jane Irwin Harrison. Anna planned to join her husband, but her hopes were shattered when she received the devastating news of his untimely death from pneumonia as she prepared for the journey.