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U.S. First Ladies: Elizabeth Monroe

This guide will give you information about the First Ladies of the United States.

Elizabeth Kortright Monroe

(1768-1830)

Elizabeth Monroe

Profile

Occupation

U.S. First Lady

(March 4, 1817 - March 4, 1825)

Date of Birth June 30, 1768
Date of Death September 23, 1830
Place of Birth New York, NY
Place of Death Oak Hill, VA
Parents
  • Hannah Kortright
  • Lawrence Kortright
Spouses James Madison
Number of Children Three

Biography

Born in New York City on June 30, 1768, Elizabeth Kortright married James Monroe in 1786. Political duties took the couple to Paris, where Elizabeth was popular for her charm, beauty and flair for fashion. While there, she also arranged for the release of the wife of war hero Lafayette. However, Monroe's seemingly aloof manner did not impress Washington society during her years as first lady. 

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