American History Hit Presidents' Private Lives
Nov 7, 2024
Eleanor Herman, author of "Sex with Presidents," joins to reveal the scandalous secrets behind U.S. presidents' private lives. She explores everything from a president's unorthodox display of physical attributes in the Oval Office to affairs that began on honeymoon trips. The discussion touches on the media's evolving portrayal of these scandals and how personal behavior influenced public perception and political careers. Herman's insights illuminate the intriguing mix of power, love, and infidelity in the history of the White House.
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Power and Sex
- Power and sex often intertwine, potentially due to "hubris disorder."
- This psychological condition affects decision-making.
Washington's Crush
- George Washington had a crush on his neighbor Sally Fairfax.
- He wrote her letters, but nothing scandalous happened.
Jefferson's Affair
- Thomas Jefferson, a founding father, fathered seven children with Sally Hemings, an enslaved woman.
- His political opponents used this against him.