Dolley Madison was a dynamic First Lady. It was her vision of what democracy works best for this new nation by having a weekly party. Ms. Madison felt that rivals can work better when they are able to see one another as human beings. So, in light of that idea, she instituted a new social world of Wednesday evenings as a get together for all the new political persons in DC. They were able to resolve and conspire new ideas and make life a common good. Dolley made it so that the President was accessible for all.
It was soft candlelight, good food, tasty wine, music making the atmosphere compatible for discussion as a political opportunity to propose, negotiate, and make reasonable deals. Hence, to this end, the official persons of Washington engaged in many a great opportunity for a better political atmosphere. Let us not forget the women – they too had an opportunity to voice concerns and make for better resolutions. Consequently, all the lawmakers really got to know one another as human beings and to understand they could all have different issues but still maintain the ideal of having the heart of the people in the best place possible. It was not unusual for 500 people to maneuver into her Oval Room. With this evening event, it soon became clear that a two-party system is born. So we have a beginning….
Dolley was truly the American Queen of Hearts. We honor her this 250th year of American Democracy.
Thank you Gentle Reader…..Patti
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