Mary Todd Lincoln
Mary Todd Lincoln was not just the wife of America’s most famous president. She was also one of history’s most reviled first ladies. Mary became the First Lady soon before the Civil War broke out, which was difficult because she was from the south and some of her ancestors were Confederate soldiers.
While she was initially praised for her parties and hosting skills, she came under fire for her wartime renovation of the White House. She had already lost one son to typhoid disease in 1850. The public began to notice her more eccentric behavior after the death of her second, Willie, in 1862.
In 1870, Congress granted her a $3,000 annual pension as the wife of the nation’s first assassinated president, which is around $65,000 in today’s money. She gained notoriety for her terrible temper and lavish spending during her time in the White House.
Her last son committed her to a mental institution for three months. She spent the rest of her life in poor condition after being liberated and died in 1882. She was buried close to her husband.
britannica.com