#27: Pat Nixon

“Being first lady is the hardest unpaid job in the world.”

Pat Nixon’s primary aspiration was to be remembered as a President’s wife, and history indeed attracted her to that role. Despite her extensive travels, diplomatic involvement, and vocal advocacy for equal rights, her legacy falls short in terms of leadership, individuality, and accomplishments.

Her credibility suffered, intertwined with her husband Richard’s notorious Watergate scandal. She advised him to erase the damning cassette recordings while they remained private property, a decision that didn’t resonate well with the public. Pat played a vital role in enhancing White House accessibility for the hearing-impaired, physically disabled, and night-shift workers. Critically labeled “Plastic Pat” for her reserved demeanor, she remained unruffled by criticism in interviews, embodying resilience amidst challenges.