San Diego, CA – January 15, 2024 – Cognella Press is proud to announce the publication of Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women by Diana B. Carlin, Anita B. McBride, and Nancy Kegan Smith. The groundbreaking book shows the evolutionary role of first lady and its historic importance on the American presidency. It shines a light on the influential women who broke barriers and made a mark on our country and, at times, our world, during their tenures in the White House.

The book includes both biographical and thematic chapters. It examines the influence of first ladies on topics such as civil rights, political campaigns, major speeches, and the White House across the span of the nation’s history. Profiles of first ladies bring their histories, achievements, and legacies to life. Readers learn about the development and expansion of the role of first lady, from its origins under Martha Washington through its current iteration under Dr. Jill Biden. The book explores how first ladies have been uniquely positioned to influence American society, policy, diplomacy, and life in the White House.

The book is available for purchase online wherever books are sold.

About the Authors

Diana B. Carlin is Professor Emerita of Communication at Saint Louis University and a retired professor of communication studies at the University of Kansas. She has taught courses on first ladies at three universities.

Anita B. McBride is Director of the First Ladies Initiative at American University, School of Public Affairs. Her experience includes service in three U.S. presidential administrations at the White House and Department of State and as chief of staff to  First Lady Laura Bush.

Nancy Kegan Smith retired in 2012 as Director of the Presidential Materials Division of the National Archives and Records Administration. She is co-editor of Modern First Ladies: Their Documentary Legacy and lectures on first ladies and presidential records.

The three authors write and lecture extensively on first ladies and are founding members of the First Ladies Association for Research and Education (FLARE).

Learn more about the book: https://titles.cognella.com/remember-the-first-ladies-9798823313193.