Michelle Obama

Michele Obama is married to President Barack Obama and is the current first lady of the United States.

Originally a hospital administrator for the University of Chicago, Obama quickly captivated the public imagination and, on occasion, created nearly as much divisiveness as her politician husband. She dubbed herself a "firebrand" on the campaign trail and was one of her husband's most ardent and visible supporters during his run for the presidency.

It wasn't a role that always suited her completely—her wit and candor led to the occasional campaign gaffe. In particular, Obama said her husband's success in the Democratic made her "proud of her country" for the first time in her adult life, which led many to question the depth of Obama's patriotism.

As the campaign shifted to the general election against John McCain, Obama moved away from making comments that might be easily politicized. She delivered the keynote address on the first night of the Democratic convention, offering a more intimate look at her family and personal values. America largely bought the re-branded Obama, right down to the clothes she was wearing; as her approval ratings rose, so too did her reputation as a style icon. After Obama appeared on shows like The View, stores had trouble keeping the outfits she wore in stock.

Obama has made few public appearances since the inauguration but paid visits to both the Department of Education and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Aides say it is a glimpse of her priorities for the next four years: working for children and families. She warns that her primary responsibility will be as "Mom in Chief" for her daughters, but after more than two tumultuous years firmly planted in the public eye, Obama is now expert at striking a balance.

—Dan Fletcher