Summary
Highlights
Bailey Sarian introduces the “Dark History” podcast, setting the stage for a dramatic historical account. She shares a personal anecdote about a blind date, humorously linking it to the story of Edith Wilson, who became a powerful figure in the White House. Edith, described as fearless and full of opinions from a young age, was not a typical woman of her era, subverting societal expectations and showcasing a strong, independent personality.
At 19, Edith met and married Norman Galt, a wealthy jeweler. Their marriage brought her a lavish lifestyle, world travel, and personal independence, including being the first woman to get a driver's license in Washington D.C., despite being known as a reckless driver. After five years, Norman unexpectedly died, leaving Edith a substantial inheritance of $125,000 and his successful jewelry store, making her a wealthy and independent widow.
Despite her wealth, Edith was socially marginalized as 'new money.' Her friends, including Woodrow Wilson's cousin, attempted to set her up with the recently widowed President. Woodrow, described as a man who needed constant female attention and a deep emotional connection, met Edith in a seemingly coincidental encounter at the White House. He quickly fell in love, initiating a passionate courtship despite Edith's initial reluctance and Woody’s somewhat obsessive nature.
Woodrow began sending Edith confidential government papers, seeking her opinions on critical issues. He even installed a private phone line between their residences. Despite her lack of political background, Edith found herself deciphering secret codes and providing advice, essentially acting as an unofficial advisor. She enjoyed the work and felt comfortable expressing her blunt opinions, leading her to joke about becoming Secretary of State.
Woodrow proposed to Edith a second time, and she accepted. The public responded positively, eager to see their President happy again. This engagement inadvertently led to the invention of the paparazzi, as the press began to extensively follow Edith, capturing her every move and highlighting her unique, 'mountain realness' style.
Woodrow's inner circle, particularly his advisor Joe Tumulty, opposed the marriage, fearing public backlash and a loss of influence. Rumors and a fabricated blackmail plot involving Woodrow's past relationship with Mary Peck were used to try and deter Edith. However, Edith remained unfazed, solidifying her distrust for the President's inner circle and fostering a lasting grudge.
After their marriage in December 1915, Edith, as First Lady, defied traditional expectations. She attended important meetings, helped write speeches, and actively charmed the public, contributing to Woodrow's successful reelection in 1916. Her assertiveness and directness continued to make her a formidable presence in Washington D.C.
During a cross-country tour advocating for world peace, Woodrow collapsed and later suffered a severe stroke, leaving him paralyzed and unable to perform his duties. Edith took charge, concealing the true extent of his condition from the public and even from the Vice President. She filtered information, made decisions, and essentially ran the country, leading to her being dubbed a 'Presidentress' by critics.
Edith faced intense scrutiny and was accused of wielding too much power. She made significant decisions, such as firing the Secretary of State, and prioritized her husband's agenda. Despite driving a car and running a business, Edith was paradoxically against women's suffrage, viewing suffragettes as 'disgusting creatures.' While her actions were controversial, she effectively maintained the presidency during a national crisis, ultimately influencing the later adoption of the 25th Amendment, which clarifies presidential succession and disability. Woodrow's last words, 'Edith,' underscored her profound impact on his life and presidency.