KU professor highlights the hidden influence of America’s first ladies at America 250 event
Long before names like Melania Trump, Jill Biden and Michelle Obama became widely recognized, previous generations of first ladies paved the way, influencing policy, culture and the nation itself.
The Senior Foundation of Eudora welcomed KU professor and historian Terri Finneman to discuss how these women contributed to American history in ways that often go unrecognized as part of its America 250 series. Finneman, a historian, journalist, scholar and professor, has dedicated her career to studying first ladies. She is the co-editor of “The Cambridge Companion of U.S. First Ladies,” which takes a deeper dive into the role of first ladies and their influence on society. According to Finneman, the significance of first ladies extends beyond ceremonial duties.
“They’ve had many social causes, they have made a difference in policies in this nation, they have supported the president and his policies that come into play,” Finneman said.
During the talk, Finneman highlighted several first ladies whose contributions have faded from public memory.
Sarah Polk, wife of President James K. Polk, was deeply involved in her husband’s decision making and political strategy, earning herself a reputation as an “unofficial co-president.” Mamie Eisenhower, wife of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, helped influence public perception of the presidency during the transformative post WWII years. Lastly, Lucretia Garfield, wife of President James A. Garfield, established the concept of the presidential library through her efforts of preserving her husband’s documents and legacy post-assasination.
“There is some truth about if you’re married and you have a partnership, they are influencing, so they are influencers,” said Ruth Hughs, founder of the Senior Foundation of Eudora. “For years they didn’t vote, but they are influencers.”
The event, held during Women’s History Month, aimed to bring more attention to stories that are often overlooked in traditional education. Finneman said the gap in historical storytelling can have real consequences.
“People are getting a very inaccurate version of history, and women aren’t seeing themselves in history even though they have played a really significant part in the last 250 years,” Finneman said. “I think it’s important for people to have a better understanding of how this nation actually formed.”
As the nation prepares for its 250th anniversary this year, the discussion put a spotlight on the impact of past and present first ladies, raising questions about the legacy today’s first ladies will leave behind.
Watch the segment here:
