Ellen Axson Wilson (1860–1914): artystka, która „uczyniła” męża prezydentem USA

Abstract

Treated as an integral part of national history, the wives of US presidents usually enjoyed a great deal of affection from their countrymen. Depending on the era, the expectations of the American people and, to a not inconsiderable extent, the abilities or predispositions of the successive occupants of the White House, they gave this informal institution of the first lady their unique, individual character. In the diverse pantheon of female presidents, an interesting figure and somewhat underrated was Woodrow Wilson’s first wife Ellen Axson Wilson, a lifelong companion for 29 years, prominently supporting him at all stages of his career, both in his academic work and later in his political activities. She was a devoted and trusted aide, advisor and supportive partner in his political career, first as Governor of New Jersey (1911–1913) and then, from 4 March 1913, as President of the United States. Ellen Axson Wilson only served as First Lady for 17 months, as she died prematurely on 6 August 1914. She was to some extent a representative of the emerging ‘new woman’, who tried to combine her private life and traditional femininity (she was a happy wife and mother) with public activity and a passion for painting. Her greatest achievement during her years in the White House was the social and reform work she undertook to improve the living conditions of poor neighborhoods in the capital and legislation in this area.