Reagan, Nancy (1921–)

Nancy Davis Reagan, First Lady of the United States from 1981 to 1989, was her husband's protector and confidant throughout his White House years. Often criticized during her time as First Lady, she rehabilitated her public image through an antidrug campaign urging children to “Just Say No.” Since leaving the White House, Reagan has been committed to preserving her beloved “Ronnie's” memory and finding a cure for Alzheimer's disease, which her husband suffered from during his final years.

Nancy and Ronald Reagan, both former actors, brought Hollywood glamour to the White House. Reagan became known for her designer gowns, lavish parties, and famous friends, such as Frank Sinatra. However, her opulent tastes were criticized by journalists, who characterized her as being out of touch with the ...