Alice Roosevelt Longworth: The Captivating First Daughter and Her Enduring Literary Legacy

American Princess: A Novel of First Daughter Alice Roosevelt

by Italo Calvino

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2374 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	447 pages

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A Spirited and Unforgettable Childhood

Alice Roosevelt, born on February 12, 1884, was the eldest child of President Theodore Roosevelt and his second wife, Edith Kermit Carow. From a young age, Alice displayed a mischievous and independent spirit that would follow her throughout her life. She had a keen intellect and a sharp wit, which she often used to challenge authority and societal norms.

Growing up in the White House during her father's presidency, Alice became a beloved figure known for her vivacious personality and love of adventure. She had a thirst for knowledge and a passion for literature, which she cultivated through extensive reading and conversations with her parents and tutors.

From First Daughter to Socialite and Political Commentator

After her father's presidency ended in 1909, Alice married Nicholas Longworth, a Republican congressman from Ohio. She emerged as a leading socialite and a prominent figure in Washington society. Her quick wit, sharp tongue, and outspoken views made her a formidable presence at political gatherings and social events.

Alice Roosevelt Longworth had a keen eye for politics and a passion for public affairs. She became a vocal critic of her cousin, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and his New Deal policies. She wrote numerous letters to the editor and published articles in which she expressed her conservative views on government and society.

The Literary Legacy of Princess Alice

In addition to her social and political activities, Alice Roosevelt Longworth was also a gifted writer. She published three volumes of memoirs and numerous articles and essays. Her writing was characterized by its humor, wit, and incisive observations on American society and politics.

Her first memoir, "Crowded Hours," published in 1933, became a bestseller. It chronicled her life as the first daughter, her marriage to Nicholas Longworth, and her experiences in Washington society. Her second memoir, "Off the Record," published in 1953, was a collection of her letters and articles, revealing her sharp wit and political commentary.

Alice Roosevelt Longworth's literary legacy continues to resonate with readers today. Her memoirs offer a unique glimpse into American history and the life of a remarkable woman. Her sharp observations and witty prose provide insights into the social and political landscape of the early 20th century.

A Complex and Captivating Figure

Alice Roosevelt Longworth was a complex and captivating figure who defined the role of first daughter in her own way. She was a socialite, a political commentator, and a gifted writer. Her wit and humor, her outspoken views, and her unapologetic spirit made her an unforgettable presence in American history.

Through her writing, Alice Roosevelt Longworth left behind a lasting literary legacy that continues to entertain and provoke readers. Her memoirs offer a glimpse into the past and a reminder of the enduring power of wit and independence.