Eyewitness: First Ladies

DK

ISBN 10: 0789473984 ISBN 13: 9780789473981

Publisher: DK Children, 2001

Synopsis

Featuring an extra-sturdy library binding! Here is a captivating, photo-filled guide to the extraordinary women who have made their mark on the White House, and the nation. Eyewitness First Ladies explores the second hardest job in America--and the forty-five exceptional women who did it. Filled with stunning, full-color photographs of personal mementos, family pictures, and campaign memorabilia, this is an engaging visual tour of U.S. History, as seen through the eyes of America's first ladies. See Dolly Madison's snuffbox, Mary Todd Lincoln's mourning cape, Edith Wilson's tiara, Eleanor Roosevelt's writing desk, and Pat Nixon's party favors. Learn about the part Martha Washington played in the American Revolution, why the White House can be both a palace and a prison, how Frances Harding won her husband's campaign, and of the scandal that haunted Rachel Jackson. Discover why Jackie Kennedy won an Emmy Award, which president's wife was the first to attend cabinet meetings, the first lady who was suspected of treason, and much much more.

About this title

Review

Rachel Jackson. Jane Pierce. Ellen Arthur. Eliza Johnson. Recognize any of these names? How about Eleanor Roosevelt, Hillary Rodham Clinton, or Laura Bush? That's right. Every one of these women was (or is) married to a president of the United States. Certain first ladies have staked their claim in history, either because their husbands were especially popular as president or because of their own activities and accomplishments in the White House. But many more have almost slipped into obscurity.

First Ladies, in the Dorling Kindersley Eyewitness popular reference book series, introduces readers to every one of America's first ladies, including the sisters and nieces who stepped in as official hostesses when needed. Learn about the first ladies who played exceptionally strong roles in their husbands' administrations--at a time when women were only expected to meekly look after their households. Many of these women changed the course of history, using their own influence and that of the president to achieve women's suffrage, fight against racism, and advocate for education. Stunning photos and illustrations of these remarkable women fill the pages, detailing their clothing, fans, and jewelry; their campaign buttons and knickknacks; and their husbands. The photos are accompanied by compelling captions and brief text about each woman, as well as a box highlighting the president she married, her years as first lady, and her birth, marriage, and death dates. Young readers of both genders will be proud to trace America's history through the eyes of these behind-the-scenes powerhouses. (Ages 9 and older) --Emilie Coulter

About the Author

Amy Pastan is a professional writer and editor of books on American history, fine arts, and photography for both adults and children. During her distinguished 20-year career in publishing, she has developed and produced award-winning titles for the Smithsonian Institution as well as for other museums and institutions throughout the US. Her most recent titles included Thomas Jefferson: Genius of Liberty, Lure of the West, and Young America.

Edition details

• Publisher: DK Children
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 0789473984
• ISBN 13: 9780789473981
• Binding: Library Binding
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 64