Presidents and First Ladies

An intimate glimpse into the lives of the first families of the United States, Presidents and First Ladies is an exciting and insightful new series that highlights the personal histories of select presidents and first ladies as well as the historical events that shaped their terms in office. Documentary photography, illustrations, and maps combine with compelling text and excerpts from letters and other primary sources to reveal how key personal, political, and historical events affected each leader and their spouse, and consequently the climate of the entire nation.

John & Jacqueline Kennedy

Jack and Jackie Kennedy, the most glamorous president and first lady ever to live in the White House, were a charismatic couple and a superb political team. To many people in the 1960s, they seemed as dazzling as the prince and princess in a fairy tale. Revelations about the Kennedys' private life have since led us to realize that the fairy tale was an illusion, yet their imperfections highlight their very real virtues: courage, grace, intelligence, and a capacity to grow. Many decades later, Jack and Jackie Kennedy continue to fascinate us.