The First Ladies of Argentina 1862-1989

This exhibition proposes a journey through the figure of the women who have represented the Argentine State – though, without actually being part of it- as a link between the public and private spheres.

The expression First Lady refers to the spouse of the President of the Nation. Even though it is a protocol title and position, it is connected to the uses and traditions of each country. In Argentina, this figure has become an institutional reference, being one of the ways in which the State has visualized its identity, participating in its own symbolic universe.

Their role centers around diplomacy, fulfilling protocol duties in official trips and ceremonies. The involvement of these women has varied over time, depending on the character and personality of those who take on the role: from protocol companionship to development of social and charitable organizations, to explicit political and institutional activities.

The spouse of the President constitutes an ideal of social behavior, becoming – at times – a role model in conduct. The first ones kept away from politics, devoting themselves to domestic life, while others focused on charity or had a significant political involvement, and those closer to our times have combined family life with accompanying the Presidents in their roles.