These iconic American first ladies left their mark on history

The title of First Lady of the United States is arguably one of the most recognizable positions the spouse of a Head of State can have worldwide.

The title is only symbolic. There is no official role for the spouse of a President in the White House. The title came to be simply as a protocolary arrangement.

Still, since its first use in the early 20th century, the position has evolved into figuring prominently in the social and political life of Americans.

In this century, the First Ladies have assumed similar roles: management of the White House, political campaigns, and championing a cause during their husband's presidency.

Michelle Obama decided to tackle childhood obesity and girls' education; Melania Trump championed the fight against bullying; and Dr. Jill Biden leaned into supporting military families.

But among the long list of prominent women who have inhabited the White House are a few who significantly impacted critical moments in US history.

The first name on the list of outstanding First Ladies is Edith Wilson, the wife of the 28th President of the US, Woodrow Wilson (1915-1921).

Image: Wikimedia / Public Domain

When her husband had a stroke in 1919, Ms. Wilson took charge of the President's office and decided which matters of state were important enough to bring to him. She was the de facto leader of the country.

Image: Wikimedia / Public Domain

Eleanor Roosevelt was the First Lady from 1933 to 1945 for four terms. Roosevelt broadly defined the role with her public engagement, campaign tours, and political causes.

Ms. Roosevelt's most significant contributions to the world came after she left the White House: she was the US Delegate to the United Nations, where she led the creation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Image: Wikimedia / Public Domain

Right after Roosevelt, Bess Truman took the role of First Lady. Her style was radically different, avoiding public light and assuming a more silent position in the White House.

Image: Wikimedia / Public Domain

Still, her husband, Harry S. Truman, admitted to consulting with her on many relevant state matters, appreciating her guidance. She became a silent advisor to the President.

Image: Wikimedia / Public Domain

Rosalynn Carter was the First Lady from 1977 to 1981. She had significant roles in the President's political campaigns, sat at Cabinet meetings, and represented the US in state visits to Latin America.

Like Eleanor Roosevelt, her most significant contributions to history came after she left the White House. She advocated for mental health and oversaw elections and peace negotiations worldwide through the Carter Center.

Nancy Reagan, First Lady from 1981 to 1989, was one of the most recognizable faces in the list of White House spouses. She became a fashion icon and was prominent in the war on drugs.

However, her contribution was much more significant than that. According to an essay by Karen Tumulty, Associate editor of the Washington Post, Reagan heavily influenced her husband to start the negotiations that would eventually end the Cold War.