America’s First Ladies: Impact and Legacy

Thursday, March 26, 2026 - 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. CST

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ONSTAGE & ONLINE

“It is impossible to look at the arc of American history—or the impact of a president—without looking at the first ladies.”
— Anita McBride, co-author of Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women
(Selected as a Best Book of 2024 by Smithsonian Scholars)

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the Truman Library Institute’s annual Women Rising event invites you to explore the lives, influence and legacies of America’s First Ladies.

David Von Drehle, New York Times bestselling author and former Washington Post columnist, shares the stage with internationally recognized author and former White House staffer Anita McBride. Together, they will explore her groundbreaking research for Remember the First Ladies, in which McBride highlights the women who broke barriers and profoundly shaped our presidents, our country and the world. From civil rights to politics, public policy and global diplomacy, First Ladies have transformed the “right-hand” role into one of lasting influence—both in public and behind the scenes.

As chief of staff to Laura Bush, McBride had an insider’s view of the First Lady’s evolving role. A knowledgeable and humorous storyteller, she will share insights into how First Ladies throughout history advanced the position of women and left their mark on the nation. She’ll also provide fascinating commentary on the under- and over-appreciated residents of the White House, drawing on her unique experience and extensive research.

Rainy Day Books will have copies of Remember the First Ladies for sale at the program, and McBride will be available for signing.

To register for this free public program, choose in-person or livestream attendee.

Women Rising events are generously sponsored by the Martha Jane Phillips Starr Field of Interest Fund.

All events listed in the calendar are free unless noted.