• First Lady of the US 1929 – 1933
• Republican

American philanthropist and geologist, who was active in numerous community organizations and volunteer groups throughout her life, including the Girl Scouts of the USA.

She minimized her public role as White House hostess, dedicating her time as first lady to her volunteer work. She refused to give interviews to reporters, but she became the first first lady to give regular radio broadcasts.

Her invitation of Jessie De Priest to the White House for tea was controversial for its implied support of racial integration and civil rights.

Hoover was responsible for refurbishing the White House during her tenure, and she also saw to the construction of a presidential retreat at Rapidan Camp.

Hoover's reputation declined alongside her husband's during the Great Depression as she was seen as uncaring of the struggles faced by Americans. Both the public and those close to her were unaware of her extensive charitable work to support the poor while serving as first lady, as she believed that publicizing generosity was improper.

Throughout her life, Hoover supported women's rights and women's independence. She was a proficient linguist, being fluent in six languages, and she was the primary translator of the complex 16th century metallurgy text De re metallica from Latin to English.

References

• National First Ladies Library, Lou Hoover