Monday's thoughts

"The First Woman President"

This July I wanted to look at two critical periods in American history and to think about some of the less well known elements of those periods. July 6th I wanted to have us think about the assassination plot that led to the death of Abraham Lincoln and almost killed Secretary of State William Seward. I tried to develop a parallel case for the assassination of Lincoln and the betrayal of Jesus by Judas; an event that led to Jesus' crucifixion.

Another critical period of American history in which little is known is the time immediately after the First World War. Woodrow Wilson was working hard to establish a permanent peace-keeping force called the "League of Nations". His effort was tireless and, in fact, led to a massive stroke in which the President was comatose. For a period of time (I plan to research the events as best I can) the presidency was being run by Woodrow Wilson's wife; Edith Bolling Galt Wilson.

Little is known about her but, in truth, she was the first woman president. Nothing official, of course, but Edith made decisions and ran the government while her husband was incapable of acting.

The result of all this had consequences. Since there was no provision to deal with the incapacity of the President, Edith was called upon to act in matter of national concern and issues of international consequence.

If you have knowledge of this period in American history I would appreciate your telling me where I could do some research. I think it is important to note how people, in times of extreme danger, step forward and do what has to be done.

I would like Edith to get the credit she deserves. I am looking for stories of other people; people we know about. I am looking for stories of the ways ordinary people performed extraordinary tasks when called upon.


If you have stories to tell I look forward to hearing from you. Write me at charlesschuster@fcfumc.net. If you are willing to have your thoughts read by members of the community click on the box below.


Charles Schuster