She was the first woman to serve as First Lady of the United States.
She was the first elected female official in the U.S.
She saved historical artifacts from a fire in the White House.
She started a movement to protect women’s voting rights.
Dolley Madison is best remembered by historians for saving historical artifacts from a fire in the White House during the War of 1812. She famously rescued important documents, including the portrait of George Washington and other valuable artworks, before fleeing the White House as British troops approached. Her quick thinking and bravery helped preserve important pieces of American history. While Dolley Madison was an influential First Lady who helped establish some of the social customs and traditions associated with the position, she was not the first woman to serve as First Lady, nor was she an elected official or active in the women's rights movement.
