Most of America's First Ladies are known only because of their marriage to a president. For nearly two centuries, Abigail Adams alone held the distinction of also being a First Mother. Barbara "Babs" Bush joined her with that distinction when her son, George W. Bush, was inaugurated as president in January 2001. Though the distinction is one of significance, neither of these fine ladies was overly influential in American society.

One should also distinguish a First Lady's career from that which she did as 'The First Lady.' Hillary Rodham Clinton is a very significant and influential person in her own right. She certainly contributed to her husband's positive image with her seemingly strained patience. Her contributions to his election were immense. Her political savvy, at times, raises questions as to whether she or her husband was most responsible for his election. Her main effort as First Lady, though, was a failed attempt for health care reform. Therefore, despite my respect for her personal accomplishments and her contributions to her husband's success, her accomplishments were not as The First Lady.

There were many First Ladies who were influential to the American public for contributions they made as a result of their relative fame:

Elizabeth "Betty" Ford suffered from her personal demon of addiction. The social life surrounding the success of a politician was necessary, but it also was the seed for her addiction. With the love and support of her dedicated husband, Betty Ford controlled her demon, and established The Betty Ford Clinic so that others may seek treatment for addictions, inspired by her success.

Nancy Davis Reagan sought to inspire children in this land to "Just Say No" to drugs. She was recognized both as a doting, loving, and concerned wife, and as the face for causes she deemed important. After her two terms as First Lady, she remained recognizable as the occasional spokesman revealing limited information about her husband's slow and painful demise from Alzheimer's.

Jacqueline "Jackie" Bouvier Kennedy graced the White House during the 1,000 days of Camelot. She allowed cameras into the White House so that the public might tour it via television. She had the beauty of a movie star, and the poise of royalty. In addition to her gracious invitation to the White House, she was a very dedicated mother. Not only did she influence many to emulate her style and grace, she also influenced America to be conscientious parents. The

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