Edit Wilson Second wife of the 28th President of the United States Date of Birth: 15.10.1872 Country: USA

1. Biography of Edith Wilson
2. Marriage to Norman Galt
3. Meeting Woodrow Wilson
4. Marriage to Woodrow Wilson
5. Role as First Lady
6. Later Years
7. Legacy

Biography of Edith Wilson

Edith Wilson, the second wife of the 28th President of the United States, was born on October 15, 1872, in Wytheville, Virginia. Her father, Judge William Holcombe Bolling, was a Confederate veteran, while her mother, Sallie White, came from an affluent family. Edith grew up in a privileged household, where she received education from her grandmother and developed a love for literature and languages.

Marriage to Norman Galt

In April 1896, at the age of 23, Edith married Norman Galt, a wealthy jeweler from Washington, D.C. The couple enjoyed a happy marriage and traveled extensively in Europe. Norman's death in 1908 left Edith widowed and in charge of his jewelry business. She sold the business a few years later, taking on the responsibility of raising Norman's three children from a previous marriage.

Meeting Woodrow Wilson

In 1915, Edith met President Woodrow Wilson, who had recently lost his first wife, Ellen. They quickly developed a close friendship, and Wilson relied on Edith for companionship and support. Despite public expectations of a prolonged mourning period, Wilson's friends and family saw his relationship with Edith as an opportunity to help him overcome his melancholy and loneliness.

Marriage to Woodrow Wilson

Wilson proposed to Edith on May 4, 1915, and despite her initial hesitation, they became engaged. They kept their engagement secret due to concerns of a scandal affecting Wilson's chances for re-election in 1916. They were married on December 18, 1915, in a private ceremony at Edith's home in Washington, D.C. The wedding was attended by a small group of friends and family. Edith was 43 years old at the time, while Wilson was almost 16 years her senior.

Role as First Lady

As First Lady, Edith took on a significant role in the Wilson administration. She accompanied Wilson to official events, assisted him with correspondence and decision-making, and even had access to confidential information. Wilson regarded her as his most trusted confidante, and their close partnership earned her the nickname "the secret president." Edith also took an active role in supporting the war effort during World War I, organizing fundraisers and volunteering for the Red Cross.

Later Years

After Woodrow Wilson's presidency ended in 1921, Edith continued to support him in his retirement. She took care of him during his declining health from a stroke in 1919, effectively acting as his caretaker and gatekeeper to visitors. Edith remained devoted to Wilson until his death in 1924.

Legacy

Edith Wilson's role as First Lady and her influence on Woodrow Wilson's presidency have been a subject of much debate among historians. While some have criticized her for overstepping her boundaries, others argue that she was a capable and dedicated partner to Wilson. Regardless of the controversies surrounding her, Edith played a significant role during a tumultuous period in American history and left an indelible mark on the presidency.