Who actually wrote the Little House books? For decades this question has loomed over the series. Was it Laura, a 65-year-old farm wife? Or her daughter Rose, one of the country's most successful freelance writers? But that's not the only conspiracy theory these heartwarming, cozy books have spawned. Many people also believe they are a Libertarian fantasy masquerading as tales for children. In this episode we tackle the question: how involved in the writing was Rose, really? And how much of Rose’s sometimes extreme political ideology ended up woven into Laura’s story? And if that weren't enough, we also look into whether Rose was responsible for funding the education of two of the most powerful right-wing operatives in America. While we're on the subject of politics, did Little House bankroll a failed run for President? And, finally, how did a man Laura never met, come to control the entire Little House world? We told you Rose was complicated.

Go deeper: 
Caroline Fraser’s Prairie Fires
Visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Historic Homes in De Smet, South Dakota
Visit Laura and Rose’s homes in Mansfield 
All About Kids! episode with Roger Lea MacBride, courtesy of Hennepin County Library
Roger Lea MacBride’s presidential campaign ad courtesy of Carl Albert Center Archives

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