Dolley Madison

Date of Birth: May 20, 1768

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: July 12, 1849

Biography

Dolley Madison, born Dolley Payne on May 20, 1768, in Guilford County, North Carolina, was the wife of James Madison, the fourth President of the United States, and served as the First Lady from 1809 to 1817. She is best remembered for her role in shaping the role of the First Lady and her heroic actions during the War of 1812 when she saved a portrait of George Washington from the White House before it was burned by British troops. Raised in a Quaker family, Dolley moved with her family to Philadelphia, where she met and married John Todd Jr. in 1790. Tragically, Todd and their youngest son died in a yellow fever epidemic in 1793. In 1794, she married James Madison, who was then a prominent congressman. As First Lady, Dolley was renowned for her social graces, hospitality, and efforts to create a sense of national unity. After her husband’s presidency, Dolley continued to be a prominent figure in Washington, D.C., until her death on July 12, 1849. Her legacy as a pioneer in the role of the First Lady and her contributions to American society remain influential.

5 Interesting Facts about Dolley Madison

1. Dolley Madison was the first American First Lady to adopt a public political role.

2. She is credited with popularizing the term “First Lady.”

3. Dolley played a crucial role in furnishing the newly constructed White House.

4. She was awarded an honorary seat on the floor of Congress, a rare honor for women at the time.

5. Dolley Madison ice cream is named in her honor, reflecting her legacy in American culture.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Dolley Madison

1. “I am determined to persevere until I succeed.”

2. “Our citizens are all soldiers, and all soldiers are citizens.”

3. “At this late day, I am unable to say to what extent I may have been useful to the public.”

4. “I have always preferred the happiness of my friends to my own.”

5. “I would rather fight with all my might than the malevolent spirit of party.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth achieved by Dolley Madison during her lifetime was not well-documented, but she experienced financial difficulties later in life after her husband’s death.