The Evolving Role of the First Lady
“A Woman’s Touch: The Role of the First Lady” was a 4:00 p.m. presentation on July 22, 2009, at the eleventh annual George Washington Teachers' Institute, “George Washington and The Challenges of Nation Building,” held on July 21-22, 2009, at Mount Vernon. It was co-hosted by George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens and The White House Historical Association.
Participants spoke about the role of the first lady and how it had evolved as the nation changed during various eras. Among the topics addre… read more
Participants spoke about the role of the first lady and how it had evolved as the nation changed during various eras. Among the topics addressed were the differing causes and projects undertaken by first ladies, their influence over their husbands, changing cultural and societal expectations of women, and how they coped with life in Washington. The discussion focused on Martha Washington, Abigail Adams, Dolley Madison, and Mary Todd Lincoln. Sally McDonough, former director of communications for Laura Bush, moderated the discussion. Following the presentations panelists answered questions from the audience.
“A Woman’s Touch: The Role of the First Lady” was a 4:00 p.m. presentation on July 22, 2009, at the eleventh annual George Washington Teachers' Institute, “George Washington and The Challenges of Nation Building,” held on July 21-22, 2009, at Mount Vernon. It was co-hosted by George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens and The White House Historical Association. close
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