Nellie Taft

Nellie Taft's bold declaration of a joint presidency at her husband's inauguration marked a significant departure from tradition. As a progressive First Lady, she championed higher education and partial suffrage for women while pushing for improved working conditions for federal employees. Defying societal norms, she embraced smoking, drinking, and gambling, and actively challenged racial and class barriers, setting a precedent for future First Ladies. Her dynamic personality and advocacy made her a notable figure in American history.