This series presents Dolley Madison, Jane Pierce, Edith Wilson, Lady Bird Johnson, Rosalynn Carter and Michelle Obama: six first ladies who changed history in their own unique ways.

Week 1: We’ll begin with two 19th century first ladies: influential political operator Dolley Madison and Jane Pierce, often called “Ghost of the White House,” who contributed to the development of the Civil War.

Week 2: Moving into the early 20th century, we will explore Edith Wilson’s role in the White House following Woodrow Wilson’s stroke. Did the level of assistance she provided make her our first woman president?

Weeks 3 & 4: Two first ladies emerge later in the 20th century: Lady Bird Johnson and Rosalynn Carter. A close adviser to her husband, Lady Bird Johnson also managed a media empire and as first lady championed environmentalism, civil rights and the War on Poverty. Rosalynn Carter was an equal partner to her husband during his term and was an influential global humanitarian in her own right.

Week 5: We conclude with Michelle Obama, who never wished for a political life but more than rose to the challenge. Her strength of character provides an inspiration to many.

Classes will combine lecture and discussion.