Bell Ringers

Bell Ringer: Inauguration History: The Role of the First Lady

First Ladies' Inaugural Ball Gowns

A curator from the National Museum of American History gave a historical overview of inaugural gowns worn by the nation’s first ladies and spoke about how their choices have shaped history and spotlighted the careers of designers. The National Museum of American History has an exhibit called “The First Ladies.” Visitors are given a historical overview of the role of first lady as well as a glimpse into their fashion sense including what they wore to the inauguration balls through the years.

Description

A curator from the National Museum of American History gave a historical overview of inaugural gowns worn by the nation’s first ladies and spoke about how their choices have shaped history and spotlighted the careers of designers. The National Museum of American History has an exhibit called “The First Ladies.” Visitors are given a historical overview of the role of first lady as well as a glimpse into their fashion sense including what they wore to the inauguration balls through the years.

Bell Ringer Assignment

  • What are some of the First Lady's duties on Inauguration Day?
  • What information can the public obtain from a First Lady's wardrobe?
  • From the gowns displayed in the clip, how did the style of inauguration dresses change over time?

Participants

    Vocabulary

    • Eleanor Roosevelt
    • Inaugural Ball
    • Inauguration Day
    • Laura Bush
    • Martha Washington
    • Michelle Obama
    • Nancy Reagan
    • Rosalyn Carter

    Topics

    Campaigns & ElectionsU.S. History

    Grades

    Middle SchoolHigh School