The Presidency
Reason for Choosing This Topic
My interest in this topic was influenced by the fact that the role, position, and influence of first ladies have been overlooked. Although first ladies have played significant influence behind the throne, their impact has been downplayed by the media and political scholars. Focusing on this topic will enable me to become acquainted with the principles of the first ladyship such as their roles, their public interest, and their influence. Additionally, the information garnered in this study will serve as a step in the determination of whether media sets agendas to confirm societal expectations of women or tends to represent them in a truthful manner – neutral, negative, or positive. This is because, the position of the first lady has been defined by particular characteristics which are mostly a reflection of the society such as the representation of womanhood, their homes, and their families. By analyzing first ladies in the United States for the past five decades, one can notice that although they often hold a public and political stage, they are often expected to remain in the background and far from politics. However, some first ladies such as Eleanor Roosevelt and Michelle Obama have taken active positions in politics and associated activities in a bid to support the course of their husbands.
The interest in this topic was also in a bid to reflect on the changing role of women and shift in public attitude on their role in society. Through this website, my study will reflect the trend from the 18th century to the 20th and the nation’s demands for the first lady to be an active supporter of the husband’s career, moral leader, propagator of cultural heritage, and a nurturer of their community and families. Additionally, the chosen subject is closely related to chapter 10 topic, “the presidency,” an aspect that will enable me to understand their role from a narrow perspective and from a huge scope in relation to the Whitehouse and to the nation in the post of presidency.
Relationship with the Topic
This topic is related to the topic “The Presidency” in that first ladies often provide unique leadership and support to the office of the president. Although the role of the first lady lacks a rule book as a result of inherent opportunity and flexibility, it is made up of unique capabilities, personalities, and their passive engagement in politics that contribute to lessons that can inspire both other first ladies and women in the world.
The site as a Learning Tool
Yes. I consider this site a good source of information for American politics. This is because, the site has provided insights on essential aspects of the country including executive offices, news, administration, remarks, and presidential actions. While one would assume that the site provides information about first ladies only, it has instead invested in the provision of essential aspects of the country including immigration, healthcare, budget and spending, and relevant information about the white house. For instance, on the white house, the site has provided detailed information about all the presidents and their life in the statehouse (White house, n.d). It has also provided information on events & tours, past presidents, the grounds, and past first ladies and their influence. The site has also taken the current pandemic into consideration and provided a live section where updates are provided about COVID-19 along with other essential issues in the country. As such, this site serves as an influential learning tool in that the information provided is current, original, and thorough which is all based on strong evidence.
References
White house (n.d). First ladies. Retrieved from https://www.whitehouse.gov/about-the-white-house/first-ladies/