Upstairs at the White House: My Life with the First Ladies

West highlights the significant contributions of first ladies to the presidency, despite their unelected and unpaid status. As head of state and head of government, the president leads both politically and as the nation’s representative to the world. Many first ladies have supported presidents in these roles, as West’s first-person history of the 20th century shows. Furthermore, West explores how some first ladies expanded their influence by undertaking projects of their own, preserving the White House and enhancing the first lady’s role beyond the residence.

Beyond their public roles, many first ladies have served as trusted confidantes to the president, offering a unique perspective that no one else in the government could provide. Presidents often turned to their wives for counsel, knowing they had only their best interests at heart. For instance, President Truman frequently sought advice from his wife, Bess, in private meetings where they discussed his speeches, policies, and political strategy. Her intelligence and insight played a vital role in shaping his decisions. In the case of the Roosevelts, Eleanor Roosevelt took on an even more active role, traveling both domestically and abroad on behalf of her husband. With Franklin D. Roosevelt physically limited by illness, Eleanor's travels allowed her to gauge public opinion and provide him with candid advice that cut to the core of important issues.