Alice Roosevelt Longworth
Actor
About Alice Roosevelt Longworth
Alice Roosevelt Longworth was not a professional actress but rather one of the most famous American socialites and political figures of the early 20th century. As the eldest daughter of President Theodore Roosevelt, she captivated the American public with her rebellious spirit, beauty, and sharp wit from a young age. Her appearance in the 1902 documentary 'Christening and Launching Kaiser Wilhelm's Yacht 'Meteor'' was as herself - the President's daughter attending a significant diplomatic event - rather than as a professional actress. Throughout her long life, she became known as 'Princess Alice' and later as 'the other Washington Monument' for her enduring influence on American politics and society. She hosted legendary political salons in her Washington home for decades, shaping political discourse and maintaining connections across party lines. Her famous quote 'If you can't say something good about someone, sit right here by me' exemplified her legendary wit and social acumen. Longworth lived through the entire transition from silent films to modern cinema, witnessing the evolution of Hollywood from her unique vantage point as a Washington insider.
The Craft
On Screen
Not applicable - appeared as herself in documentary footage
Milestones
- Appearance in 1902 documentary 'Christening and Launching Kaiser Wilhelm's Yacht 'Meteor''
- Became Washington's most influential social hostess
- Maintained political salon for over 50 years
- Known as 'the other Washington Monument'
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Known as 'Princess Alice' in American society
- Referred to as 'the other Washington Monument'
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Alice Roosevelt Longworth's impact on American culture was profound, though not through cinema but through her role as a social and political influencer. As the original 'celebrity' presidential daughter, she set the template for how First Family members could capture public attention. Her wit, style, and rebellious nature made her a media sensation in an era before modern celebrity culture. Her Washington salon became one of the most important political gathering places in America, where senators, justices, and diplomats would gather for her legendary conversation and influence. She demonstrated how social capital could be converted into political power, influencing American politics indirectly through her relationships and conversations.
Lasting Legacy
Alice Roosevelt Longworth's legacy is that of America's original political influencer and socialite. She transformed the role of presidential family members from ceremonial figures to cultural trendsetters and political players. Her home became a neutral ground where political deals were discussed and alliances formed across party lines. Her wit and wisdom were quoted for decades, and her approach to social influence prefigured modern political networking. She proved that a woman could wield significant power in Washington without holding elected office, using social connections and intellectual acumen as her tools.
Who They Inspired
Longworth influenced generations of Washington hostesses and political wives, showing how social events could be venues for serious political discourse. Her style of combining wit with political insight influenced how women could participate in politics indirectly. Her famous salons became the model for other political gatherings, and her ability to maintain relationships across partisan divides offered a lesson in political bridge-building that remains relevant today.
Off Screen
Alice Roosevelt Longworth led a colorful personal life that captivated American society. She married Congressman Nicholas Longworth in 1906, who later became Speaker of the House. Their marriage was troubled but they remained together until his death in 1931. She had a daughter, Paulina, and later married Senator Alexander McCormick Sturges in 1942. Her long life spanned from the Victorian era through the modern age, and she remained a fixture in Washington society until her death at age 96.
Education
Privately educated, attended Miss Spence's School in New York
Family
- Nicholas Longworth (1906-1931)
- Alexander McCormick Sturges (1942-1948)
Did You Know?
- Was the first presidential child to receive widespread media attention and celebrity status
- Famous for carrying a snake named Emily Spinach to White House functions
- Her wedding in 1906 was considered the social event of the season
- Smoked cigarettes in public when it was considered scandalous for women
- Her home in Washington became known as the 'Little White House'
- Lived through the administrations of 20 different U.S. presidents
- Was a lifelong Republican who maintained friendships with Democrats
- Her famous blue-gray dress became a fashion trend when she wore it to her father's inauguration
- Once said 'I want either less corruption, or more chance to participate in it'
- Her portrait was painted by numerous famous artists including John Singer Sargent
In Their Own Words
If you can't say something good about someone, sit right here by me
I've always believed in the adage that the secret of eternal youth is arrested development
I have a simple philosophy: Fill what's empty, empty what's full, and scratch where it itches
My father always wanted to be the corpse at every funeral, the bride at every wedding, and the baby at every christening
Washington is a city of Southern efficiency and Northern charm
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Alice Roosevelt Longworth?
Alice Roosevelt Longworth was the eldest daughter of President Theodore Roosevelt and one of America's most famous socialites and political influencers. She was known for her wit, beauty, and decades-long role as a Washington power broker who hosted legendary political salons in her home.
What films is Alice Roosevelt Longworth best known for?
Alice Roosevelt Longworth appeared in only one film, the 1902 documentary 'Christening and Launching Kaiser Wilhelm's Yacht 'Meteor'' where she appeared as herself as the President's daughter. She was not a professional actress but a historical figure captured in early documentary footage.
When was Alice Roosevelt Longworth born and when did she die?
Alice Roosevelt Longworth was born on February 12, 1884, in New York City and died on February 20, 1980, in Washington D.C., living to the remarkable age of 96.
What awards did Alice Roosevelt Longworth win?
Alice Roosevelt Longworth did not receive formal awards for her film appearance, as she was not an actress. Her recognition came through her social and political influence, earning her nicknames like 'Princess Alice' and 'the other Washington Monument' for her enduring impact on American political life.
What was Alice Roosevelt Longworth's role in American society?
Alice Roosevelt Longworth served as one of America's most influential political hostesses and social figures. Her Washington salon became a crucial gathering place for politicians, diplomats, and journalists, where she used her wit and connections to influence political discourse and decision-making for over five decades.
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Films
1 film
