#14: Bess Truman

Bess Truman faced the daunting task of following in the revered footsteps of Eleanor Roosevelt, yet she held a distinct aversion to the public and political aspects of her role as First Lady. Instead, she quietly served as her husband’s secretary and contributed to his speeches behind the scenes.

Their only child, Margaret, born in 1924, demanded much of her attention as Bess took on the primary caregiving role. In 1949, when it became evident that the White House required extensive repairs, she made the unconventional decision to renovate and restore it rather than opting for the more cost-effective demolition and reconstruction. Unlike her predecessors, she steered clear of meetings with female reporters, maintaining a low-profile approach to her role.