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
“She was more liberal than her husband and constantly pushing on civil rights, generally, women’s rights, labor rights.”
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
“Do not put such unlimited power into the hands of husbands. Remember, all men would be tyrants if they could.”
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 drafting of the Declaration of Independence. 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
“The first lady is, and always has been, an unpaid public servant elected by one person, her husband.”
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.
Lady Bird, a champion of working women, influenced her husband to appoint women to government posts. She ardently advocated for removing eyesores along highways and protecting 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
“You never know what you can do until you have to do it.”
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.
Lady Bird, a champion of working women, influenced her husband to appoint women to government posts. She ardently advocated for removing eyesores along highways and protecting 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.