Dolley Madison: Her Life, Letters, and Legacy

by Holly Shulman, David Mattern

Dolley Madison’s grace, charm, and political skills made her a valuable and full partner with her husband, President James Madison. Widowed at the age of twenty-five with two children to care for, Dolley would struggle through a difficult life with dignity. Drawn to the young widow, James Madison would recognize her considerable talents and together they would reach the highest office in the land. Her role as first lady was a surprisingly contemporary display of the exercise of power from behind the scenes.

Genres: History, Biography

112 pages, Library Binding

First published September 1, 2002

Reviews

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Because we'll be touring her home in Philadelphia, I wanted to supplement my basic knowledge of her beforehand. Dolley set the bar for the first ladies of our nation. She was gracious, well mannered, dignified, charitable, a wonderful hostess, steadfast, and she used her influence for good. I always thought of her as the woman who gave great parties and saved the wonderful Gilbert Stuart painting of George Washington when the White House was burned during the War of 1812. But she was so MUCH more than that. I hadn't realized how much tragedy she endured throughout her life. This book also made me admire and appreciate James Madison more than I had before.

[Dionne · Rating 5 out of 5]

"As one of her contemporaries wrote, Dolley Madison had 'dignity, sweetness, and grace. It seems to me that such manners would disarm envy itself, and conciliate even enemies.' In this seemingly simple skill lay much of her greatness."--pg. 57

This is a nice, short, detailed biography on an incredible woman.

[Jane Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best source on original documents of Dolley Madison available in print, well edited and puts people and events into context.

[Liza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holly Shulman is my sister. Check my blog for more about her and Dolley.