Ranking America’s Most Prominent First Ladies From Most to Least Popular

 

From Mary Todd Lincoln to Jill Biden, each First Lady has left an indelible mark, blending the roles of hostess and iconic figure while pursuing diverse paths in American politics. Evaluating factors like background, commitment to the nation, accomplishments and public image, and value to the President, we present a concise ranking of 20 well-known First Ladies, from the most esteemed to the least favored.

#1: Eleanor Roosevelt

Eleanor Roosevelt, despite her initial reluctance to be a First Lady, has cemented her legacy as the most influential in American history. Raised in a community-oriented family, she evolved into a passionate advocate, even before marrying Franklin Delano Roosevelt, where she was a schoolteacher.

Unwavering in her support for progressive causes, including civil rights, low-income housing, women’s rights, and youth employment, she faced relentless opposition. Unlike some First Ladies, Eleanor thrived in the spotlight, hosting weekly press briefings with female journalists, embarking on nationwide tours, engaging in radio broadcasts, and contributing to various publications. Her indomitable spirit forever defines her historic tenure.

#2: Abigail Adams

Abigail Adams, mother and spouse to two U.S. Presidents, notably John Adams, leveraged her role as First Lady to advance women’s rights and education. She famously urged her husband to “consider the ladies” during the Declaration of Independence’s drafting. Abigail maintained a rigorous daily schedule, starting at 5 a.m., engaging in political debates uncommon for women.

Alongside managing the family farm, overseeing public events, and reviewing her husband’s speeches, she ardently supported the abolition of slavery. Her assertiveness led detractors to dub her “Mrs. President” due to her influential personality and significant impact on her husband, although not all Americans embraced her.

#3: Laura Bush

During her tenure as First Lady, Laura Bush, wife of George W. Bush, passionately championed reading programs, following in her mother-in-law’s footsteps, and tirelessly advocated for the well-being of women worldwide. While she didn’t immerse herself in overtly political roles like some predecessors, her impact was undeniable.

With an academic background, she earned a Master’s degree in library sciences in 1973 and subsequently served as a librarian in Austin. Notably, she organized a national book fair featuring American authors and garnered praise for her compassionate support of 9/11 survivors. In 2001, she made history as the first presidential spouse to deliver the White House weekly radio address, addressing the Taliban’s mistreatment of Afghan women.

#4: Lady Bird Johnson

Lady Bird Johnson stepped into the role of First Lady after the iconic Jackie Kennedy, yet she carved her own place as one of the nation’s most beloved First Ladies. Her tireless efforts in Lyndon B. Johnson’s 1964 presidential campaign, highlighted by her “Lady Bird Special” train tour through Southern states, endeared her to the public.

A champion of working women, Lady Bird influenced her husband to appoint women to government posts. She ardently advocated for the removal of eyesores along highways and the protection of California redwoods, aiming to beautify the country. She found her passion in the Head Start program, aiding underprivileged preschool children in preparing for their education.

#5: Betty Ford

Betty Ford was a formidable personality who fearlessly tackled contentious issues. She openly acknowledged her mental health treatment, championed women’s equality, suggested premarital sex could reduce divorces, and supported the landmark 1973 Supreme Court decision Roe v. Wade.

In 1974, her candid revelation about her battle with breast cancer marked her as one of the first First Ladies to share her health struggles with the public. Betty Ford also confronted drug and alcohol addiction, eventually overcoming it and co-founding the Betty Ford Center for Substance Abuse. In 1991, George H.W. Bush honored her with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her significant contributions to addiction awareness and rehabilitation.

#6: Dolley Madison

Known as the “Lady Presidentress,” the First Lady of the United States during the War of 1812, Dolley Madison, made a lasting impact. In a daring act during the British invasion, she delayed her escape to safeguard a prized portrait of George Washington and crucial government documents.

Dolley’s influence extended beyond crisis management. She pioneered political dinners, initiated the first White House remodeling, and championed orphan care while actively promoting her husband James’ 1808 presidential campaign. Her legacy epitomized the balance between democratic ideals and White House exclusivity. Dolley introduced weekly open-house events, warmly welcoming all, bridging the gap between the presidency and the people.

#7: Rosalyn Carter

Rosalynn Carter broke new ground as First Lady, initiating changes that reshaped the role. She introduced the position of a chief of staff with equal status and pay to West Wing aides and organized the official Office of the First Lady. Rosalynn also assumed a pivotal role in her husband’s political communications.

Unprecedented in her involvement, she championed her husband’s constituents’ ideas, even scheduling weekly business lunches to discuss her work. Actively participating in politics, she attended cabinet meetings, provided counsel to Jimmy Carter, and, in 1977, served as the official presidential ambassador to Latin America.

#8: Jackie Kennedy Onassis

Jackie Kennedy was far more than an iconic figure and a symbol of tragedy for Americans; she held a profound impact as the youngest First Lady in over 80 years. Upon entering the White House, she undertook a monumental task: revamping and maintaining its interiors.

Jackie established the White House Historical Association and enlisted a Smithsonian curator to catalog its treasures. She expanded the library’s collection, championed civil rights, and supported organizations like the American Cancer Society. A passionate advocate for the arts, she hosted gatherings for academics and artists.

#9: Martha Washington

Martha Washington, the very first First Lady of the United States, set the precedent for the role. Her duties included hosting receptions, welcoming visitors, and aiding veterans and the less fortunate. She faithfully stood by her husband’s side during winters in military encampments

Martha encouraged fellow officers’ wives to support the war effort by saving money and assisting their spouses in any way possible. Despite facing personal tragedy, including the loss of her last son during the Revolutionary War, she adopted two surviving grandsons to fill the void of her own childlessness with George. Though discreet about her political beliefs, she engaged in political discussions and advocated for girls’ education, leaving an enduring legacy.

#10: Edith Roosevelt

Edith Roosevelt, President Theodore Roosevelt’s second wife, reshaped the role of First Lady. Pioneering new practices, she became the first to employ a full-time social secretary and unofficially advise her husband. Edith also formalized her responsibilities, a groundbreaking move. Some critics found her approach controlling, particularly when she convened regular meetings of cabinet ministers’ wives to discuss moral standards and party spending limits.

Although perceived as less of a leader, she strategically kept a low profile during her husband’s presidential campaigns and avoided reporters. Nevertheless, her consistently high rankings among First Ladies attest to her significance. Edith’s legacy endures through major White House renovations, expanding family rooms, and preserving portraits and china sets of her predecessors.

#11: Lou Hoover

Lou Hoover’s reputation as an academic and scholar was well-deserved, with her proficiency in various foreign languages standing out. She frequently graced radio broadcasts, passionately championing diverse causes, particularly volunteerism.

Beyond the political sphere, Lou made a significant impact as a key figure in the Girl Scouts of the United States of America, twice assuming the role of national GSUSA president. Her standing in the eyes of the public was evident in the Siena Research Institute’s 1982 ranking, where she held the 11th spot, a position she continued to maintain with remarkable consistency over time.

#12: Louisa Adams

Louisa Adams, the inaugural First Lady born outside the U.S., played a pivotal but evolving role in her husband’s political journey. Serving as his unofficial campaign manager, she provided counsel and tirelessly worked to elevate John Quincy Adams’ social standing, steering him toward the presidency. However, once he secured victory, her influence waned, with her involvement limited to hosting official events.

This shift in her role accounts for her comparatively lower rankings in leadership, individuality, and achievements. Louisa harbored a deep disdain for her position as First Lady, even dubbing the White House a “prison.” Nevertheless, her instrumental support proved vital in helping her husband clinch the fiercely contested 1824 election.

#13: Barbara Bush

Barbara Bush, affectionately dubbed “The National Treasure” by her husband’s aides, enjoyed widespread popularity during her time as First Lady. Her legacy included championing literacy, regular visits to homeless shelters and hospitals, advocating for AIDS awareness, and supporting initiatives for senior citizens. Remarkably, she married at a young age, a rarity among First Ladies.

As a devoted stay-at-home mother, Barbara raised five children while steadfastly supporting her husband’s multifaceted career. Their journey took them through 29 moves before they entered the White House in 1989. While her public persona exuded warmth and grandmotherly charm, some glimpsed a more reserved side to Barbara in private.