History of Michelle Obama in Timeline
Michelle Obama is an American attorney and author who served as the first lady of the United States from 2009 to 2017. She is married to the 44th U.S. president, Barack Obama.
1935: Birth of Fraser Robinson III
Michelle Obama's father, Fraser Robinson III, was born in 1935.
July 30, 1937: Birth of Marian Shields Robinson
On July 30, 1937, Marian Shields, Michelle Obama's mother, was born.
January 17, 1964: Birth of Michelle Obama
On January 17, 1964, Michelle LaVaughn Robinson, later known as Michelle Obama, was born in Chicago, Illinois.
1981: Michelle Obama Starts at Princeton University
Michelle Obama began her studies at Princeton University in 1981, majoring in sociology and minoring in African-American studies.
1981: Michelle Obama Graduates High School
Michelle Obama graduated as the salutatorian of her class from Whitney Young High School in 1981.
1983: Craig Robinson Graduates from Princeton University
Michelle Obama's brother, Craig Robinson, graduated from Princeton University in 1983.
1985: Michelle Obama Graduates from Princeton University
Michelle Obama graduated cum laude from Princeton University in 1985 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
1988: Michelle Obama Earns Law Degree from Harvard Law School
In 1988, Michelle Obama earned her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Harvard Law School, marking a significant milestone in her legal career.
1989: Michelle and Barack Obama's First Date
Michelle and Barack Obama's first date took place in 1989, when they went to see Spike Lee's movie "Do the Right Thing."
March 1991: Death of Fraser Robinson III
Michelle Obama's father, Fraser Robinson III, passed away in March 1991 due to complications from multiple sclerosis.
1991: Entry into Public Service in Chicago
Michelle Obama's commitment to public service began in 1991 when she took on roles in the Chicago city government, serving as Assistant to the Mayor and Assistant Commissioner of Planning and Development.
1991: Death of Fraser Robinson III
In 1991, Fraser Robinson III, Michelle Obama's father, passed away.
October 3, 1992: Wedding of Michelle and Barack Obama
On October 3, 1992, Michelle Robinson and Barack Obama exchanged vows in a ceremony that marked the beginning of their marriage.
1992: Marriage of Michelle and Barack Obama
Michelle Robinson married Barack Obama in 1992, marking the beginning of their life together.
1993: Early Career in Law and Transition to Public Service
After graduating law school, Michelle Obama began her career as a lawyer at Sidley & Austin, where she met her future husband, Barack. Though she transitioned to public service in 1993, she maintained her law license on inactive status.
1993: Leading Public Allies and Empowering Youth
In 1993, Michelle Obama became the executive director for the Chicago branch of Public Allies, where she excelled in fundraising and fostering youth engagement in social issues. Her work there had a lasting impact, with fundraising records unbroken even after 12 years.
1996: Barack Obama Elected to the Illinois State Senate
Barack Obama's political journey continued in 1996 when he was elected to the Illinois State Senate.
1996: Early Recognition of Political Aspirations and Michelle's Reservations
In 1996, while acknowledging the potential for her husband's political career, Michelle Obama expressed reservations, highlighting her preference for privacy and concerns about the scrutiny that comes with public life.
1996: Shaping Student Life at the University of Chicago
Michelle Obama's dedication to education led her to the University of Chicago in 1996, where she served as Associate Dean of Student Services and played a key role in developing the university's Community Service Center.
1998: Birth of Malia Ann Obama
In 1998, Michelle and Barack Obama welcomed their first daughter, Malia Ann Obama, into the world.
2000: Michelle's Pragmatism and Initial Reluctance towards Campaigning
During Barack Obama's 2000 Congressional run, Michelle's initial reluctance towards campaigning was evident. She prioritized their family's financial stability and found limited personal fulfillment in the campaign trail, despite actively supporting her husband.
2001: Birth of Natasha (Sasha) Obama
Michelle and Barack Obama's second daughter, Natasha, affectionately known as Sasha, was born in 2001.
2002: Expanding Community Engagement at University of Chicago Hospitals
In 2002, Michelle Obama joined the University of Chicago Hospitals, focusing on community affairs and later becoming vice president for Community and External Affairs.
2004: Barack Obama Elected to the U.S. Senate
In 2004, Barack Obama was elected to the U.S. Senate, representing Illinois.
May 2005: Assuming Vice Presidency at University of Chicago Hospitals
In May 2005, Michelle Obama's responsibilities at the University of Chicago Hospitals expanded as she assumed the role of vice president for Community and External Affairs.
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May 2006: Michelle Obama Named Among "25 of the World's Most Inspiring Women"
In May 2006, Essence recognized Michelle Obama's growing influence by including her in their list of "25 of the World's Most Inspiring Women," highlighting her impact beyond her role as the wife of a prominent politician.
2006: Financial Disclosure and Public Scrutiny
Transparency in the Obamas' financial dealings became a point of public record in 2006, with their tax return revealing Michelle's salary from the University of Chicago Hospitals, Barack's Senate income, and additional earnings from Michelle's board membership and their investments.
May 14, 2007: Navigating Corporate Ties and Political Alignments
Michelle Obama's position on the board of TreeHouse Foods, a Walmart supplier, came under scrutiny in light of her husband's criticism of Walmart's labor practices during his 2007 presidential campaign.
May 2007: Shifting Priorities to Support Presidential Campaign
Michelle Obama significantly reduced her professional commitments in May 2007 to dedicate her time and energy to supporting her husband's presidential campaign, marking a turning point in her public role.
July 2007: Michelle Obama's Style Earns Recognition
Michelle Obama's style caught the attention of the fashion world in July 2007 when Vanity Fair included her in their prestigious "10 of the World's Best Dressed People" list. This recognition further solidified her status as a fashion icon and trendsetter.
September 2007: Michelle Obama and Barack Obama Make Harvard 100 List
In September 2007, both Michelle and Barack Obama were recognized for their influence by being included in 02138 magazine's "The Harvard 100," a list celebrating the most impactful Harvard alumni of the previous year. Michelle secured the 58th spot, while Barack achieved the fourth position.
2007: Michelle Obama Begins Campaigning for Her Husband's Presidential Bid
Michelle Obama actively campaigned for her husband, Barack Obama, throughout his 2007 presidential bid.
February 2008: Increased Visibility and Active Campaigning
By February 2008, Michelle Obama's role in her husband's presidential campaign had significantly expanded, demonstrating her growing comfort with public speaking and her effectiveness in connecting with voters.
May 31, 2008: Departure from Trinity United Church of Christ
On May 31, 2008, Barack and Michelle Obama announced their withdrawal from Trinity United Church of Christ, citing their disagreement with controversial statements made by Rev. Jeremiah Wright.
July 2008: Michelle Obama's Style Continues to Impress
Michelle Obama's fashion choices continued to garner acclaim, earning her a repeat appearance on Vanity Fair's International Best Dressed list in July 2008. People magazine also acknowledged her impeccable style, praising her "classic and confident" looks.
October 6, 2008: Interviews and Controversy
On October 6, 2008, Michelle Obama discussed the Bradley effect with Larry King and addressed campaign criticisms with Jon Stewart. This date also marked a controversy involving a Fox News commentator's remark about the Obamas' fist bump.
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2008: Michelle Obama Champions Barack Obama's LGBT Rights Record
Throughout the 2008 presidential campaign, Michelle Obama actively highlighted her husband's support for LGBT rights, emphasizing his track record of advocating for equality during his tenure as a senator.
2008: Evolving Campaign Style and Public Image
Throughout 2008, Michelle Obama's campaign style evolved to emphasize empathy and relatability, a shift reflected in both her rhetoric and her wardrobe choices. This strategic adjustment aimed to soften her public image and broaden her appeal.
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2008: Balancing Career, Family, and Political Campaigning
As her husband's political career gained momentum in 2008, Michelle Obama skillfully balanced her role at the University of Chicago Hospitals, her family responsibilities, and active participation in his presidential campaign.
2008: Michelle Obama's Impact Recognized
Michelle Obama had a significant impact on the national stage in 2008, which was later recognized by Time magazine in 2020.
2008: Michelle Obama Delivers Keynote Address at the Democratic National Convention
Michelle Obama delivered a powerful keynote address at the 2008 Democratic National Convention, showcasing her eloquence and presence on the national stage.
2008: Kristen Jarvis Joins as Aide
Kristen Jarvis joined Michelle Obama's team as an aide in 2008, serving until 2015.
2008: Family Life and Decisions
In 2008, Michelle Obama shared that she and Barack did not plan to have more children. This was also the year when the Obama family faced decisions regarding their daughters' education in Washington D.C., ultimately choosing Sidwell Friends School.
2008: Criticism of Media Focus on Michelle Obama's Fashion
Following the 2008 election, some media outlets faced criticism for focusing more on Michelle Obama's fashion choices than her policy initiatives and contributions. Critics argued that this emphasis on style over substance overshadowed her work on issues such as military families and working families.
2008: Post-2008 Election Influence
Following the 2008 election, Michelle Obama's public image evolved, and she became known as a popular figure within the administration.
2008: Public Image and Fashion Evolution
During the 2008 election cycle, Michelle Obama's public image evolved, sparking both strong support and opposition. Her fashion choices also shifted to reflect a more relatable and budget-conscious style.
2008: Barack Obama Campaigns for U.S. President
Barack Obama launched his campaign for U.S. President in 2008, with Michelle Obama playing a pivotal role.
2008: Democratic National Convention Speech
Michelle Obama delivered a well-received keynote address at the 2008 Democratic National Convention, where she aimed to portray her family as the embodiment of the American Dream and addressed criticisms about her previous comments on national pride.
March 2009: Michelle Obama's Vogue Cover Debut
In March 2009, Michelle Obama appeared on the cover of Vogue magazine, becoming only the second First Lady to do so. This marked the beginning of her significant presence in fashion media.
April 1, 2009: Michelle Obama's Hug with Queen Elizabeth II Sparks Protocol Discussion
Michelle Obama's warm embrace of Queen Elizabeth II during a visit to Buckingham Palace on April 1, 2009, generated considerable discussion regarding royal protocol, with some deeming the gesture a breach of tradition.
April 2009: Michelle Obama's First Trip Abroad as First Lady
In April 2009, Michelle Obama embarked on her inaugural trip abroad as First Lady. During her visit to the UK, she participated in various events, including a visit to a cancer ward alongside Sarah Brown, wife of British Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Her trip garnered significant media attention, with Newsweek highlighting her "star power" and MSN praising her "sartorial elegance." A minor protocol question was raised when she reciprocated a touch on the back from Queen Elizabeth II, but Palace sources dismissed any breach of etiquette.
April 2009: Favorability Ratings Peak
A CBS News/New York Times poll in September 2012 revealed Michelle Obama's favorability rating among registered voters reached 61%, marking her highest recorded percentage since April 2009.
May 2009: Michelle Obama Delivers Commencement Speech at UC Merced
Michelle Obama delivered a well-received commencement speech at the University of California, Merced, in May 2009. Her address resonated with graduates, who praised her relatability and engaging presence.
June 5, 2009: Chief of Staff Change
On June 5, 2009, Michelle Obama replaced her Chief of Staff, Jackie Norris, with Susan Sher, a longtime friend and advisor.
2009: Barbara Walters' Most Fascinating Person
Michelle Obama was recognized as Barbara Walters' Most Fascinating Person of the year in 2009.
2009: Michelle Obama's Fashion Influence
Michelle Obama's influence on fashion was evident during the 2009 Fashion Week, further solidifying her role as a trendsetter and style icon.
2009: Advocacy and Legislative Activities
Michelle Obama actively supported her husband's policy agenda in 2009, advocating for bills and visiting government agencies. Her level of political involvement drew mixed reactions.
2009: Advocacy and Faith in the Public Sphere
In 2009, Michelle Obama used her platform to encourage political awareness and advocacy, particularly within the African Methodist Episcopal Church community. She emphasized the intersection of faith and social responsibility, framing issues like human dignity and potential as moral imperatives.
2009: Michelle Obama Becomes First Lady of the United States
In 2009, Michelle Obama became the first African-American First Lady of the United States when her husband, Barack Obama, was inaugurated as the 44th President.
January 2010: Michelle Obama Spearheads Initiative to Combat Childhood Obesity
In January 2010, Michelle Obama assumed a leading role in a government-wide endeavor, which she christened "Let's Move!", designed to reverse the upward trajectory of childhood obesity observed in the 21st century.
January 2010: Michelle Obama's Potential Midterm Campaign Role Sparks Speculation
While Michelle Obama had not confirmed her participation in campaigning for the 2010 midterm elections, speculation grew due to her high approval ratings and invitations to speak at events alongside Democratic candidates.
February 9, 2010: Michelle Obama Launches "Let's Move!" Initiative
On February 9, 2010, Michelle Obama unveiled her flagship program, "Let's Move!", aimed at tackling childhood obesity. Concurrently, President Obama established a task force to evaluate existing efforts and formulate a comprehensive national strategy.
April 2010: Michelle Obama Undertakes Solo Trip to Mexico, Engaging with Students
In a historic first, Michelle Obama embarked on a solo trip to Mexico in April 2010, where she engaged with students, encouraging them to take ownership of their futures. Her visit underscored the importance of international relations and cross-cultural exchange.
October 2010: Michelle Obama Campaigns for Democrats in Midterm Elections
In October 2010 Michelle Obama embarked on a two-week, seven-state campaign tour to support Democratic candidates in the midterm elections. Despite her popularity exceeding her husband's at the time, her efforts resulted in only six victories out of the thirteen candidates she supported.
2010: Michelle Obama's Fashion Influence
In 2010, Michelle Obama's fashion choices, which often included a mix of high-end and affordable brands, had a significant impact on the fashion industry. Her patronage was estimated to be worth millions to companies, and she became known for her trendsetting style, particularly her preference for sleeveless dresses.
June 2011: Michelle Obama Makes Second Official Trip to Africa, Advancing Foreign Policy Goals
Michelle Obama's second official trip to Africa in June 2011, which included visits to South Africa and Botswana, aimed to further her husband's foreign policy agenda. Her itinerary included meetings with dignitaries and community engagement initiatives.
August 2011: Michelle Obama Makes History with Better Homes and Gardens Cover
Michelle Obama became the first woman and the first person in 48 years to be featured on the cover of Better Homes and Gardens magazine in August 2011.
September 20, 2011: Michelle Obama Includes Openly Gay Service Members in Military Families Initiative
Following the repeal of "Don't Ask Don't Tell" on September 20, 2011, Michelle Obama ensured the inclusion of openly gay service members and their families in her national military families initiative.
2011: Increased Political Activity
Michelle Obama became more politically active in 2011, although she avoided discussions about the upcoming re-election bid.
April 2012: Jerald Washington Memorial Founders' Award (First Award)
In April 2012, Michelle and Barack Obama received the Jerald Washington Memorial Founders' Award from the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans for their support of military families.
May 9, 2012: Barack and Michelle Obama Publicly Endorse Same-Sex Marriage
On May 9, 2012, Barack and Michelle Obama made a landmark announcement, publicly expressing their support for same-sex marriage. This marked the first time Michelle Obama had explicitly stated her stance on the issue.
2012: Michelle Obama Delivers Speech at the Democratic National Convention
At the 2012 Democratic National Convention, Michelle Obama delivered a compelling speech emphasizing the importance of the American Dream and Barack Obama's commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of background or identity.
2012: Michelle Obama Publishes "American Grown" and Advocates for Healthy Eating
In 2012, Michelle Obama authored "American Grown: The Story of the White House Kitchen Garden and Gardens Across America," a book inspired by her experiences promoting healthy eating habits. Her efforts resonated with organizations like the US Department of Defense, which grappled with obesity concerns.
2012: Post-Debate Reactions and Favorability
In 2012, Michelle Obama expressed confidence in her husband's debating abilities, which were subsequently critiqued. Despite the criticism, her favorability ratings remained high.
2012: Campaigning for Re-election
Michelle Obama actively campaigned for her husband's re-election in 2012. Her popularity and open image were seen as assets to the campaign.
2012: Michelle Obama Addresses the Democratic National Convention
Michelle Obama delivered a speech at the 2012 Democratic National Convention, continuing her active role in the political sphere.
2012: Appealing to Female Voters
Michelle Obama focused on humanizing her husband and connecting with female voters in swing states during the 2012 election. Although her approval ratings were higher, she was often compared to Ann Romney, wife of Mitt Romney.
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2012: Researchers Discover Michelle Obama's Ancestry
Researchers revealed in 2012, based on DNA and historical evidence, Michelle Obama's ancestral connection to Melvinia Shields, her great-great-great-grandmother who was born into slavery.
August 2013: Michelle Obama's Attire Garners Attention at March on Washington Anniversary
Michelle Obama's attire, a stylish black sleeveless dress adorned with red flowers, designed by Tracy Reese, drew praise and attention at the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington in August 2013.
November 2013: Feminist Critique and Defense
In November 2013, a Politico article sparked controversy by labeling Michelle Obama a "feminist nightmare." The article criticized her for not leveraging her influence for women's issues. The piece faced significant backlash, with supporters pointing to her efforts addressing obesity as a key public health concern.
2013: Michelle Obama Makes History at the Oscars
In 2013, Michelle Obama made history as the first First Lady to announce the winner of an Academy Award, presenting the award for Best Picture to the film "Argo".
March 2014: Michelle Obama Visits China
In March 2014, Michelle Obama, along with her daughters Malia and Sasha, and her mother Marian Robinson, embarked on a significant visit to China. During this trip, she engaged in diplomatic meetings with Peng Liyuan, the wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Beyond official engagements, she immersed herself in the rich culture of China by visiting historical and cultural landmarks, a university, and two high schools. The visit was of great diplomatic significance, aiming to strengthen the bond between the United States and China, extending beyond the leadership to foster connections between the people of both nations.
May 2014: Michelle Obama's Popularity Fuels Speculation for Midterm Elections
In May 2014, with a 61% approval rating, Michelle Obama's popularity surpassed her husband's, leading to speculation about her potential impact on the upcoming midterm elections and a demand for her presence at campaign events.
May 2014: #BringBackOurGirls Campaign
Michelle Obama showed her support in May 2014 for the campaign to rescue kidnapped Nigerian schoolgirls by tweeting a photo of herself holding a poster with the #bringbackourgirls hashtag.
October 2014: Senator Rand Paul Subtly Criticizes Michelle Obama's Health Initiatives
In October 2014, Senator Rand Paul seemingly took a jab at Michelle Obama's healthy eating campaign by linking to her Twitter account while announcing his visit to Dunkin' Donuts.
2014: Michelle Obama Guest Stars on "Parks and Recreation"
Michelle Obama made a memorable guest appearance on the popular television comedy "Parks and Recreation" in 2014.
January 2015: Michelle Obama's Saudi Arabia Visit Sparks Controversy
In January 2015, Michelle Obama accompanied her husband on a trip to Saudi Arabia following the death of King Abdullah. Her visit sparked controversy as she chose not to cover her head, a custom mandatory for women in Saudi Arabia. This decision drew criticism from some, while others defended her choice, citing her foreign status. During the visit, she was not greeted or acknowledged by King Salman, adding another layer of complexity to the trip.
March 2015: The Obamas Commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery Marches
In a poignant display of solidarity, Michelle Obama, along with her family and civil rights leaders, including John Lewis, crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, marking the 50th anniversary of the historic marches for voting rights.
May 2015: Jerald Washington Memorial Founders' Award (Second Award)
In May 2015, Michelle Obama, alongside Jill Biden, was once again honored with the Jerald Washington Memorial Founders' Award for her continued dedication to military families.
May 2015: Polls Show Mixed Support for Potential Michelle Obama Presidential Bid
In May 2015, polls revealed varying levels of support for a hypothetical Michelle Obama presidential candidacy. While some polls indicated a degree of backing, others suggested a lack of public enthusiasm for such a run.
June 2015: Michelle Obama Champions International Education on European Tour
In June 2015, Michelle Obama embarked on a week-long trip to London and three Italian cities. Her time in London was marked by a speech advocating for international education opportunities for girls and meetings with Prime Minister David Cameron and Prince Harry, accompanied by her daughters and mother.
July 2015: Michelle Obama Visits Coachella Valley During Trip to Support Special Olympics
While in Los Angeles for the Special Olympics World Games in July 2015, Michelle Obama made a stop in Coachella Valley, showcasing her support for athletes and the Special Olympics organization.
October 2015: Michelle Obama Joins Jill Biden and Prince Harry to Support Military Members
Michelle Obama, alongside Jill Biden and Prince Harry, visited Fort Belvoir in October 2015. The visit highlighted programs aimed at providing assistance and resources to service members and their families.
December 2015: The Obamas Offer Condolences to Families of San Bernardino Terrorist Attack Victims
Following a devastating terrorist attack in San Bernardino, California, Michelle and Barack Obama traveled to the city to meet with the families of the victims, offering condolences and support during a time of national mourning.
2015: Kristen Jarvis Departs
In 2015 Kristen Jarvis left her role as aide to become chief of staff to the Ford Foundation president Darren Walker.
January 14, 2016: President Obama States Michelle Obama Will Not Run For President
During a town-hall meeting on January 14, 2016, President Obama addressed speculation about Michelle Obama's potential presidential run, stating definitively that she would not be seeking office.
January 2016: Chris Christie Criticizes Michelle Obama's Healthy Eating Efforts
During his 2016 presidential campaign, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie publicly criticized Michelle Obama's focus on healthy eating, accusing her of leveraging government resources to promote her personal dietary preferences.
March 2016: Michelle Obama Joins Historic Cuba Trip
In a significant diplomatic gesture in March 2016, Michelle Obama joined her husband and children on a trip to Cuba. This visit was viewed as a potential turning point in U.S.-Cuba relations. Later that same month, the First Family travelled to Argentina, where they met with Argentinian President Mauricio Macri.
March 16, 2016: Michelle Obama Denies Future Presidential Run
On March 16, 2016, while speaking in Austin, Texas, Michelle Obama reiterated that she had no plans to pursue a presidential bid, emphasizing her preference for impacting people in a non-partisan manner.
October 13, 2016: Michelle Obama Delivers Powerful Speech Against Donald Trump
On October 13, 2016, at a Clinton rally in Manchester, New Hampshire, Michelle Obama delivered a powerful speech, strongly criticizing Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump for his controversial statements revealed in a 2005 audio recording.
December 2016: Michelle Obama's Final Vogue Cover as First Lady
Michelle Obama graced the cover of Vogue for the third and final time as First Lady in December 2016. The photoshoot, by famed photographer Annie Leibovitz, marked the end of her influential tenure in the White House.
2016: Michelle Obama Speaks at the Democratic National Convention
In 2016, Michelle Obama delivered another impactful speech at the Democratic National Convention.
May 2017: Michelle Obama Criticizes Trump Administration's School Lunch Policy
During an appearance at the Partnership for a Healthier America conference in May 2017, Michelle Obama publicly criticized the Trump administration's decision to delay the implementation of federal nutritional standards for school lunches.
2017: End of Michelle Obama's Tenure as First Lady
Michelle Obama's time as First Lady ended in 2017 with the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 45th President of the United States.
April 2018: Michelle Obama Addresses Presidential Speculation
Responding to speculation about a potential presidential run in April 2018, Michelle Obama stated that she has "never had the passion for politics" and that her focus is not on seeking office.
November 2018: Michelle Obama Releases Memoir, "Becoming"
Michelle Obama's highly anticipated memoir, "Becoming," hit bookshelves in November 2018. The book became an instant bestseller, captivating readers with her personal story.
2018: Michelle Obama Named Most Admired Woman in Gallup Poll
Michelle Obama topped Gallup's annual "most admired woman" poll for the first time in 2018.
November 2019: "Becoming" Sales Soar to 11.5 Million Copies
By November 2019, Michelle Obama's memoir "Becoming" had sold a staggering 11.5 million copies, solidifying its place as a literary phenomenon and cultural touchstone.
2019: Michelle Obama Repeats as Most Admired Woman
Michelle Obama continued her reign as the most admired woman in America, topping Gallup's poll for the second consecutive year in 2019.
May 6, 2020: Netflix Releases "Becoming" Documentary
"Becoming," a documentary chronicling Michelle Obama's book tour for her best-selling memoir, premiered on Netflix on May 6, 2020. The film offered an intimate glimpse into her life and experiences.
July 2020: Michelle Obama Launches "The Michelle Obama Podcast"
Michelle Obama entered the world of podcasting in July 2020 with the launch of "The Michelle Obama Podcast." The podcast featured conversations on a wide range of topics.
2020: Michelle Obama Produces Documentary "Crip Camp"
Michelle Obama served as a producer on the documentary film "Crip Camp," which was released in 2020.
2020: Michelle Obama Makes it a Three-Peat as Most Admired Woman
Michelle Obama secured the top spot on Gallup's "most admired woman" poll for the third year in a row in 2020, solidifying her enduring popularity and influence.
2020: Michelle Obama Named Time's Woman of the Year for 2008
In 2020, Time magazine decided to retroactively name a Woman of the Year for each year a man had received the title. As part of this initiative, Michelle Obama was recognized as the Woman of the Year for 2008, acknowledging her impact on that year's events.
2020: Michelle Obama Tops Gallup's Poll of the Most Admired Woman
In 2020, Michelle Obama's enduring influence was evident as she topped Gallup's poll of the most admired woman in America for the third consecutive year.
2020: Michelle Obama Addresses the Democratic National Convention
Michelle Obama gave a speech at the 2020 Democratic National Convention, using her platform to advocate for change and inspire voters.
January 2, 2021: Michelle Obama Encourages Voting in Georgia Senate Runoff
On January 2, 2021, Michelle Obama publicly encouraged Georgia residents to participate in the state's crucial Senate runoff election and highlighted the importance of voter ID requirements.
January 20, 2021: Michelle Obama Attends Biden Inauguration in Style
Michelle Obama attended the inauguration of President Joe Biden on January 20, 2021, wearing a striking plum ensemble designed by Sergio Hudson.
February 2021: Michelle Obama Teams Up with Netflix for Children's Show
In February 2021, Michelle Obama was announced as the executive producer and presenter for a new Netflix children's cooking show titled "Waffles + Mochi."
March 16, 2021: "Waffles + Mochi" Premieres on Netflix
Michelle Obama's children's cooking show, "Waffles + Mochi," premiered on Netflix on March 16, 2021. As executive producer and presenter, Obama combined her passion for healthy eating and education in the show.
September 11, 2021: The Obamas Attend 9/11 Memorial
Michelle and Barack Obama attended a 9/11 memorial on September 11, 2021, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the attacks.
2021: Michelle Obama Inducted into National Women's Hall of Fame
In recognition of her significant contributions and achievements, Michelle Obama was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 2021.
2021: Transition to Retirement and Continued Engagement
By 2021, Michelle Obama began scaling back her professional commitments, indicating a move towards retirement while remaining active in political campaigns and advocating for causes she championed.
July 21, 2022: Michelle Obama Announces New Book, "The Light We Carry"
On July 21, 2022, Michelle Obama delighted fans by announcing her next book, "The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times," set to be released later that year.
November 2022: "The Light We Carry" is Published
"The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times," Michelle Obama's highly anticipated follow-up to her best-selling memoir, was published in November 2022 by Penguin Random House.
2022: Michelle Obama Appears on "Black-ish"
Michelle Obama made a guest appearance on the television comedy "Black-ish" in 2022.
April 28, 2023: Michelle Obama Joins Bruce Springsteen on Stage in Barcelona
Michelle Obama surprised concertgoers by joining Bruce Springsteen on stage during his show in Barcelona on April 28, 2023. She provided backing vocals and played the tambourine for his song "Glory Days."
November 2023: Michelle Obama Named to BBC's 100 Women List
In November 2023, Michelle Obama's global influence was acknowledged when she was named to the BBC's prestigious 100 Women list, which celebrates inspiring and influential women from around the world.
2023: Michelle Obama Produces Biographical Drama "Rustin"
Michelle Obama took on a producing role for the biographical drama film "Rustin," which was released in 2023.
2023: Michelle Obama Receives Emmy Nomination for "The Light We Carry"
Michelle Obama's impact in the entertainment industry continued to grow in 2023 when she received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Hosted Nonfiction Series or Special for her Netflix documentary film "The Light We Carry: Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey."
March 2024: Michelle Obama Rules Out 2024 Presidential Run
Amidst widespread speculation about President Biden's potential re-election campaign, Michelle Obama's office announced in March 2024 that she would not be seeking the presidency in the 2024 election.