First Ladies (DK Eyewitness Books)

Meet forty-five dynamic women -- from Martha Washington to America's newest first lady. 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.

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. She lives in Washington, DC, with her husband and two sons.