Fascinating details
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- Emily took over the role of first lady from her aunt, Rachel Donelson Jackson, Andrew Jackson's first and only wife, who died before Andrew Jackson’s inauguration.
- She supported literacy and education, especially for girls.
- Andrew Jackson replaced Emily Donelson with Sarah Yorke Jackson, his daughter-in-law, when Emily’s name became associated with the Peggy Eaton (or Petticoat) Affair (a scandal involving President Andrew’s cabinet and their wives).
- For a period, both Emily and Sarah assumed the role of hostess, although Emily’s tenure gave her more authority.
- Sarah Yorke Jackson officially took over as first lady when Emily Donelson passed away in 1836. Sarah Yorke Jackson served as first lady from 11/26/1834-03/04/1837.
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