Image is Everything: First Ladies and the Nuclear Family in Cold War America

Image Is Everything: First Ladies and the Nuclear Family in Cold War America Presented by Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Florida Atlantic University – Jupiter During the Cold War, American women faced enormous pressure to embody the ideal wife and mother, while First Ladies experienced these expectations under an even brighter public spotlight. In this engaging presentation, presidential historian Nicole Anslover examines how First Ladies reflected and influenced the evolving role of American women during the Cold War. Through the experiences of Jackie Kennedy, Pat Nixon, and Betty Ford, discover how these women navigated public expectations, family life, and their own identities while living in the White House spotlight. Highlights include Jackie Kennedy’s decision to allow media access to her children, Pat Nixon’s efforts to find the right tone in public life, and Betty Ford’s outspoken support of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). Join OLLI at FAU Jupiter for a fascinating look at First Ladies, family, and the changing role of women in modern American history.