America’s Most Well-Known First Ladies — Ranked

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

Jackie Kennedy was more than just a fashion icon and a tragic character for the American people to adore. Jackie Kennedy became the youngest First Lady in over 80 years when Jack Kennedy was elected president. As soon as she became First Lady, she upgraded and maintained the White House furnishings.

She formed the White House Historical Association and hired a Smithsonian curator to inventory the mansion’s treasures. She doubled the number of books in the library and advocated for civil rights and groups like the American Cancer Society.

She also promoted the arts by hosting meals for academics and artists. The high-profile features of being a presidential wife did not appeal to Jackie. She avoided reporters and frequently asked others to represent her at public events.

Dolley Madison

This “Lady Presidentress” (the original title for the First Lady of the United States) was well-known for her activities during the War of 1812 when British forces invaded the country. She waited until the last possible moment to flee, saving a painting of George Washington and other government documents.

Dolley Madison hosted political dinners and was the first First Lady to remodel the White House. She also fostered orphans and assisted with networking during her husband James’ presidential campaign in 1808.

Dolley Madison was known to find a compromise between the president’s democratic focus and the belief that the White House should be exclusively available to a select few people. She began having weekly White House events, welcoming anyone who wanted to come in and interacting freely with her visitors.

Michelle Obama

When Michelle Obama became the first African-American First Lady in 2009, she created history. She focused on kids’ nutrition, exercise, education in the White House and military families, and LGBTQ rights. She scored very well in the categories of own woman, public image, and worth to the president. She’s also one of the most admired presidential wives.

In 2009, she established a garden on the White House’s south lawn to promote a healthier diet. In recent years she’s become a best-selling author, public speaker, and podcast host. She’s also known for participating in exciting shows such as the James Cordon show.