The Presidents' Ladies

First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt once said that being the First Lady was "a position where I can do the most good." Over 50 women have held the role of First Lady of the United States (POTUS); this book will cover the first 31. However, not all those who served as First Lady were spouses to the President. If the President were a bachelor or widower, or if his wife was unable or unwilling to perform the role, other female relatives or friends were called upon to carry out the First Lady's duties; thus, there have been more First Ladies than Presidents. The First Lady's early role ensured their husbands succeeded, although some worked behind the scenes to influence causes and events. Some First Ladies gave advice on political matters, wrote speeches, and acted in even more significant behind-the-scenes roles. The role of the First Lady has continued to evolve to where some are more active, influential, and popular than their husbands. As the women's power grew, so did the role of First Lady.