This panel will explore the influence and legacy of Edith Wilson, first lady from 1915-1921. While she is popularly known for her role in protecting her husband’s position in the White House after his stroke in 1919, an effort steeped in controversy owing to claims of her outsize influence, our panelists will re-evaluate Edith’s historical reputation, noting her longtime role as her husband’s de facto chief of staff, the many times she confidently took on new roles well before 1919, and her relationship with the press which has shaped her legacy to this day. This panel will be introduced by FLARE Vice President Nancy Kegan Smith and moderated by Dr. Katherine Sibley, and include panelists Dr. Mary Stockwell, journalist Rebecca Roberts, and Dr. Stacy Cordery.
If you missed the March 30 presentation of Taking a New Look at Edith Wilson, you can view it on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/Q2QbWsAYtYc .