Letitia Baldrige

Letitia Baldrige (February 9, 1926 – October 29, 2012) was an American etiquette expert, author, and diplomat who became famous as the Chief of Staff to First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy during the Kennedy administration. Born in Philadelphia to a prominent family, Baldrige was educated at Vassar College and became a leading authority on American manners and protocol. After serving as a diplomat in the U.S. Foreign Service and working in Paris, she joined the White House in 1961, where she played a crucial role in restoring elegance and formal traditions to White House events and ceremonies during the Kennedy presidency. Her meticulous attention to detail and knowledge of diplomatic protocol helped establish the Kennedy administration's reputation for sophistication and grace. Following her White House tenure, Baldrige authored several influential books on etiquette and social customs, including 'Letitia Baldrige's Complete Guide to Executive Manners,' which became a definitive reference work. She lectured extensively and appeared regularly on television to discuss social etiquette. Her legacy extends beyond etiquette into cultural history, as she documented and preserved important traditions of American formal society. Baldrige's work influenced generations of Americans in understanding the importance of courtesy, respect, and proper conduct.