The public perception of the First Lady has evolved through the years and the press and scholars are beginning to take note of the essential role presidents' wives have played in the Administration and in the nation as a whole. Their participation in the country's historical, philosophical and sociological experience has made them "First Women" and "First Partners". The twentieth century in particular has seen the construction of their image in the media and highlighted the evolution of their political role at the heart of presidential power. This book explores the ambiguity that underlies Nancy Reagan's multiple facets as both an individual and the first lady. It also sheds light on the particularities of one of the most controversial yet exceptional women of the twentieth century and provides a deeper insight into the complex role of the (first) lady they called "the woman behind the man".

Inhalt

Preface; Part One: From Lonely Anne Frances to Proud Nancy Davis; Part Two: The Hollywood Starlet; Part Three: Sacramento: The Road to Washington D.C.; Part Four: First Lady: The First Year, the Worst Year; Part Five: First Lady: "High Highs & Low Lows"; Part Six: Epilogue: The Most Famous Caregiver in the World; Index.