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.