HomeThe beliefs of society have been that "men are destined to be dominant and act in the political world" (Burrell 9). This issue has caused much controversy for decades. Women around the world have repeatedly fought to break women’s silence and shatter the glass ceiling. According to Aristotle:
Woman was constitutionally unfitted for the highest good which was achievable only through involvement in public life. She was controlled by emotion, not by reason…the female’s primary function was reproduction. Silence was her glory. (Burrell 10).
One woman whose struggles, dedications, and accomplishments have stood above all the rest is no one but except our First Lady, Hillary Rodham Clinton. Evidently, women’s roles in society have changed greatly over the years. In 1992, "with an explosion" Hillary Clinton helped reshape and change everyone’s beliefs of women in politics. Breaking every traditional norm of women in politics, she became one of the most influential, prominent, and respected women of time. Some view her as an inspiring mother-attorney and a powerful role model. Clinton was characterized as a "new breed of political wife, representing a new generation of working women" (qtd. in Burrell 4). She has not only challenged the entire political system, but also the role of the First Lady. The fact is, she has surpasses all others with her involvement with her husband’s government. She had the potential to eliminate the "behind the scenes" reputation for the First Lady and become known as the "President’s Partner" in policy making.
Never before has there been so much hype about a First Lady. Numerous polls, surveys, and press stories have been done on Hillary Clinton (more than any other First Lady had). The main focus of the articles has been about Hillary’s superior involvement and dedication to her duties. She brought professional credentials as well as admirable traits to the White House. These helped support her claim to be a major presidential advisor. Hillary Rodham Clinton herself has sat in on Cabinet meetings, fought for more liberal feminism, and served as chair of the Children’s Defense Fund. Another one of the duties she withholds is the head of the Health Task Force. She also wrote a book 1996 called, "It Takes a Village and Other Lessons Children Teach Us." When her husband, Bill Clinton, was defeated for re-election to the governship of Arkansas, she directed his comeback. She is now currently running a vigorous race for the Senator of New York, which many hopes she wins.
Fortunately, Hillary Clinton has set a new standard for women in politics. She has inspired many to reach their goals and has extraordinarily changed the traditions for the First Lady. Many have asked, "What is the purpose for the First Lady?", and Hillary Clinton has given it a clear definition. Her accomplishments are known worldwide, she is surely an unforgettable woman.
by Kimberly Carriero
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