Wife to eleventh president James Polk, Sarah Childress Polk enjoyed much more freedom than her contemporaries. Without children and more educated that many other women, Mrs. Polk used her charms in furtherance of her husband's political agenda.

However, she was aware of - and believed in - the social norms of the time. This made Polk work diligently behind the scenes in support of her spouse.

Tune in to learn all about Sarah Childress Polk. For show notes, transcripts, or how you can support the show, visit the website at www.civicsandcoffee.com