Presidents and First Ladies-Ronald & Nancy Reagan

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.

Throughout their married life, Ronald Reagan wrote tender love letters to his wife, Nancy. This playful anniversary note was written in March 1981, soon after Reagan was sworn in as president of the United States. During the fifty-two years of their marriage, Ronald and Nancy shared an extremely close, loving relationship. Even in the Oval Office, Reagan was dependent on his wife for support and counsel. "I miss her if she just walks out of the room," he wrote. She, in turn, adored her "hero." As president and first lady, Ronald and Nancy Reagan lived through eight tumultuous years in the world's spotlight. Through good times and bad, their love story continued.