A new era for American women began in 1920. That was the first year women were allowed to vote in a presidential election. In the 1920s, more females were holding professional jobs and living independently. Florence Harding fit perfectly into that era. A strong-willed, ambitious woman, Mrs. Harding was prominent in her husband's administration. She created a whole new image for the first lady by holding her own press conferences, at which she expressed her own opinions. She helped humanize a president who was quickly losing popularity, and when her husband's administration became tainted with scandal, Mrs. Harding did all she could to protect his name.

Early independence

Born in Marion, Ohio, in 1860, Florence Kling grew up in a wealthy household. Her father, Amos Kling, was a merchant and the richest man in Marion. While growing up, Florence developed confidence and independence. She worked with her father...