Elizabeth Kortright Monroe was the wife of the fifth President of the United States James Monroe. Due to the fragile condition of Elizabeth's health, she had a complete absorption in the affairs of her family and a total detachment from the world of politics and business.
Background
Elizabeth Kortright was born on June 30, 1768, into a wealthy family that moved within a small social circle in New York City. Her father, Lawrence Kortright, supported the Tory party of Great Britain and wanted the American colonies to remain under British rule. By the time of the American Revolution, he was established as a wealthy merchant, following ab earlier success as a privateer, a private trader and merchant licensed to carry arms and provide military supportfor his nation.
Elizabeth acquired social graces and elegance at an early age
Personality
Elizabeth Monroe was a woman of calm dignity who disliked fanfare and social activity. However, her quiet personality did not stop her from helping to free Madame Adrienne de Noailles Lafayette, Marquise de Lafayette, from execution in 1795.
She did not compare well to her more outgoing predecessor, Dolley Madison. Mrs. Madison often visited the wives of political officials and dignitaries, and she entertained frequently. However, Elizabeth soon developed a style of her own, preferring a much less active social role.