us first ladies

An inspiring collection of wisdom from the women of the White House, from Martha Washington to Jill Biden

Great for research, reading, or inspiration

＂The world of the future is in our making. Tomorrow is now.＂ - Eleanor Roosevelt

Each first lady has defined the unnofficial but significant role based on her own interests and priorities. Barbara Bush promoted literacy, Edith Wilson took on chief executive responsibilities after her husband’s stroke, and Betty Ford spoke frankly about taboo issues like her mental health and mastectomy. Smithsonian Book of First Ladies’ Quotations collects their words of wisdom in a perfect gift or keepsake format with elegant features.

• Bound in environmentally friendly material with soft-touch coating

• Foil-stamped in gold

• Sturdy, quality hardcover printed in the USA

An introduction by Lisa Kathleen Graddy, curator of political history at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, enriches the book with insightful observations about the value and judgement we place on first ladies.

The beautifully designed Smithsonian Book of First Ladies’ Quotations peers into the interiority and experiences of first ladies across time.

LISA KATHLEEN GRADDY is a curator of political history at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, where she specializes in women’s political history. She is the author of The Smithsonian First Ladies Collection and co-author of First Ladies: Political Role and Public Image.