Bess Truman often referred to herself as a “nobody,” but to her husband, President Harry S. Truman, she was his “chief advisor.” The President proudly stated that he consulted her on every major issue, calling her “a full partner in all my transactions” and “the boss who bosses the boss.” The Trumans were childhood sweethearts and married after Harry returned from military service in World War I. Following a failed business venture, Truman entered politics, eventually becoming a U.S. Senator in 1934. Bess was not particularly enthusiastic when Harry became Franklin D. Roosevelt’s running mate in 1944. According to their daughter Margaret, Bess was concerned about the demands of the Vice Presidency, especially the loss of privacy.

Upon becoming First Lady, Bess discontinued Eleanor Roosevelt’s practice of holding frequent press conferences. She appeared in public only when necessary, instead focusing on turning the Executive Mansion into a comfortable home. It was her casual remark that life in the White House was “so-so” that drew attention to the fact that the historic building was in serious structural trouble and required extensive repairs. As a result, the Trumans were forced to vacate the Mansion while it was almost completely reconstructed.

Though Mrs. Truman was considered a gracious hostess, her reserved nature made her less known to the public. She did not champion any particular causes and, unlike her predecessor Eleanor Roosevelt, she avoided stirring controversy. After their White House years, the Trumans returned to Independence, Missouri. Her neighbors commented that she remained as modest and unspoiled as if she had never left.

At the time of her death in 1982 at the age of 97, Bess Truman held the distinction of being the longest-lived First Lady in U.S. history, a record that stood until Rosalynn Carter.