This course will continue the exploration of the lives of America's First Ladies (part one was taught in the spring). You do not need to have taken part one to enjoy learning about the First Ladies of part two.

America's First Ladies are a diverse group, varying in age, social background, wealth, education, religion, avocations, ideology and belief, and attitude toward their position. We will look at the historical context of First Ladies to help explain her attitudes and roles. The frustrations and challenges, as well as the satisfactions and benefits of serving as the First Lady will be discussed. How each woman defined her role, whether as a subordinate or co-equal to her husband, homemaker and hostess, or policy-maker and champion of political and social causes will be explored. The dynamics between each lady and her husband and between her and the American public will be described.

Each week, we will focus on several First Ladies' stories with an emphasis on how they responded to their historical social contexts. Some of the First Ladies who will be highlighted include Frances Cleveland, both of Teddy Rosevelt’s wives, Bess Truman, Lady Bird Johnson, Nancy Reagan, Betty Ford, Laura Bush, Hilary Clinton, Jill Biden.

Special speakers/first-person narrative interpreters will augment our classroom experience.