Bess Truman

First Lady of the United States

Bess Truman was the First Lady of the United States from 1945 to 1953, known for her strong support of her husband, President Harry S. Truman, and her advocacy for women's rights.

Born
June 13, 1885
Died
October 18, 1982
Quotes
17
Rank
#6059

About Bess Truman

Bess Truman — Life and Legacy

Bess Truman, born Elizabeth Virginia Wallace, served as the First Lady of the United States during her husband Harry S. Truman's presidency. She is notable for her unwavering support and active involvement in social issues, particularly women's rights. Bess's perspective was shaped by her experiences in a changing America, where she often emphasized the importance of loyalty and resilience. Her quote, 'I am not a politician,' reflects her belief in personal integrity over political ambition, a stance that resonated with many during her time. Bess challenged traditional gender roles by stepping into the public sphere, advocating for women's opportunities and rights, which were often overlooked. Her commitment to these causes illustrates her strength and determination, qualities that are evident in her words. Today, Bess Truman's quotes continue to inspire discussions about resilience and the role of women in leadership, reminding us of the impact one individual can have on societal change.

Quote collection

Bess Truman quotes

17 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.

Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"You may invite the entire 35th Division to your wedding if you want to. I guess it's going to be yours as well as mine. We might as well have the church full while we are at it."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"[When her daughter suggested the President refer in his conversation with foreign dignitaries about lawn care to 'fertilizer' instead of to 'manure':] But remember, it took me almost thirty years to get him to call it manure."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"Now about those ghosts. I'm sure they're here and I'm not half so alarmed at meeting up with any of them as I am at having to meet the live nuts I have to see every day."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"Harry and I have been sweethearts and married more than forty years - and no matter where I was, when I put out my hand Harry's was there to grasp it."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"A woman's place in public is to sit beside her husband, be silent, and be sure her hat is on straight."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"I deplore any action which denies artistic talent an opportunity to express itself because of prejudice against race origin."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"I'm no different from anybody else. If I don't have a card, I can't check out these books."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"Such widely different things as war and picnics will surely show a man up."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"I was born on Delaware Street. We have never desired another home."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"I'm much more conspicuous having long hair than I will be with it short."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"I've been looking at used car bargains. I'll frankly confess I'm scared to death of Fords. I've seen and heard of so many turning turtle."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"I am somewhat handicapped in doing things with my hands."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"I can't see any hope but a second front. The psychological effect would be great, even if they could not wade all the way to Berlin in 15 to 20 minutes."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"I've liked lots of people 'til I went on a picnic jaunt with them."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"Mother has to be coerced into doing a lot of things."

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Bess Truman First Lady of the United States
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"It's very embarrassing to be put on the spot."

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