Jane Pierce
C-SPAN designates Jane Pierce as the most tragic first lady in light of the adversities she faced. By the time President Franklin Pierce assumed office, the couple had endured the heartbreaking loss of all three sons, with one tragically perishing in a train derailment. Jane, disinterested in politics and initially opposed to her husband’s presidential pursuit, interpreted her son’s death as divine retribution. Subsequently, she grappled with understandable depression and developed a tendency to ailments, often avoiding social functions. Despite her intelligence, Jane’s official contributions garnered a mere 2.75 out of five. Grateful to depart Washington after her husband’s term, she passed away in 1863, encapsulating a life marked by profound tragedy and personal struggles.
Image Credit: Unknown 19th century American photographer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons