With several journal articles on the topic to his credit (but no affiliation cited), Watson counters the view that "the unknown institution" of First Lady has not played a central role in US politics. Mrs. Clinton is regarded as the heir to a long legacy of influential women in the White House rather than as an anomaly. The author concludes with advice to future first ladies. Contains tables ranking the presidential partners according to various criteria, profiles of them with key dates and education, but only four photos.