Women Who Broke the Rules: Mary Todd Lincoln

Well-behaved women seldom make history. –Laurel Thatcher Ulrich

Many awe-inspiring women have changed the course of history. From social justice to women’s rights to discovering and shaping our amazing country, there’s nothing women haven’t left their mark on. But it’s not easy to affect change, and these women didn’t always play by the rules to make a difference! Kathleen Krull blends history and humor in this accessible young biography series.

Mary Todd Lincoln had a unique and determined, if sometimes erratic, personality that made her one of the most memorable First Ladies. Although she was born and raised in the South, she staunchly supported her husband’s quest to save the Union and she strictly supported his policies. She was also an advocate for our veterans, and she would often bring flowers and food to wounded soldiers in the hospital and even write letters for them to their loved ones. No matter what criticism or personal hardships she faced, including witnessing her husband’s assassination, she remained steadfastly loyal to her country.