Why do Americans dislike Mary Lincoln?
A portrait oil painting of Mary Todd Lincoln is exhibited in the Milch Gallaries in New York City on Feb. 12, 1929 in honor of the 16th president's birthday. The first lady had sat for the painting as a suprise gift for her husband at a gathering of personal friends at the white house. AP Photo
"Mary Todd Lincoln ranks among the most detested public women in American history," biographer Jean H. Baker wrote in 1987. "And Americans . . . have unshakable opinions about Mary Lincoln's failings." But why the disdain for Mary Lincoln? Now, some historians are saying it’s time we question the portrayal of the 16th First Lady as “crazy.” One such historian joined us to talk about her findings.
This segment originally aired December 8, 2021.
GUEST:
Alexis Coe
Presidential historian, NYT bestselling author of “You Never Forget Your First: A Bio of George Washington”
Imagine thinking you’re showing up to the anniversary of your assassinated husband’s death and discovering instead that your only surviving adult child has arranged for you to be tried for insanity in a kangaroo court pic.twitter.com/CAxg42yK8l
— Alexis Coe (@AlexisCoe) November 23, 2021
Prepared for web by Owen Henderson
Help shape our coverage on The 21st by joining our texting group and answering weekly questions. To join, text “TALK” to 217-803-0730 or sign up with your phone number below: