First Ladies Vol II

by Carl Sferrazza Anthony

The closing of a definitive two-volume history, First Ladies is the fascinating examination of the modern role of the Presidents' wives. Enlisting the cooperation of all living First Ladies and gleaning new perspectives from interviews with their families, friends, and staffs, Carl Sferrazza Anthony reveals the remarkable influence of their office. From Jacqueline Kennedy's plan to begin an arts and humanities department to Lady Bird Johnson's impact on the environment; from Pat Nixon's diplomatic missions to Africa and South America to Betty Ford's controversial feminist views; from Rosalynn Carter's agenda of social welfare legislation to Nancy Reagan's media savvy and Barbara Bush's literacy programs, First Ladies shows how seven women heightened awareness and lowered resistance to change, how they often became victims of unvalidated speculation and national tragedy. Their considerable power as unelected presidential advisers was generally underestimated. Now, in First Ladies , the balance of power is authoritatively weighed.

Genres: History, American History, Nonfiction, Biography, Politics

512 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1991

Reviews

[Bill · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not as fun and informative as volume one probably because I remember all these First Ladies. In fact, at 12-years old in 1961 I wrote to Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt and she REPLIED personally. That letter is now in the Eleanor Archives of the FDR Presidential Library.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

An exhaustive account of the American first ladies from 1961 to 1990: Jacqueline Kennedy, Lady Bird Johnson, Pat Nixon, Betty Ford, Rosalynn Carter, Nancy Reagan, and Barbara Bush. The book examines the way they fit into the role of First Lady, and molded it around their interests. The book also examines their relationships with each other. It's a fascinating book.

[Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting history of the First Ladies of the US, through Barbara Bush. I only wish there were a third volume!

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is actually a very good book. Not dry at all and better than reading fiction based on a first lady

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good