Hidden Power : Presidential Marriages That Shaped Our History

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uncovers the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the ultimate power couples, showing how first ladies have used their privileged access to the president to influence staffing, promote causes, and engage directly in policy-making. Edith Wilson secretly ran the country after Woodrows debilitating stroke. Eleanor Roosevelt was FDRs moral compass. And Laura Bush, initially shy of any public role, has proven to be the emotional ballast for her husband. Through extensive research and interviews, Marton reveals the substantialyet often overlookedlegacy of presidential wives, providing insight into the evolution of womens roles in the twentieth century and vividly depicting the synergy of these unique political partnerships.