Franklin D. Roosevelt

Franklin-Roosevelt-1884

Franklin D. Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt with Anna and baby James, formal portrait in Hyde Park, New York 1908

Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1912

Franklin Roosevelt Secretary of the Navy 1913

Franklin D. Roosevelt and James Cox in Dayton, Ohio - NARA - 197236

Roosevelt in a wheelchair

Franklin D. Roosevelt, commonly known by his initials, FDR, was the 32nd President of the United States, serving four terms from 1933 until his death in 1945. He was a central figure in world events during the mid-20th century, leading the United States during a time of worldwide economic depression and total war. His New Deal coalition redefined American liberalism for the middle third of the 20th century. Roosevelt was a member of the Democratic Party and the only president elected to more than two terms.

Early Life and Career

Franklin Delano Roosevelt was born on January 30, 1882, in Hyde Park, New York, to James Roosevelt and Sara Ann Delano. His early education was through tutors and private schools, and he later attended Groton School, a prestigious preparatory school in Massachusetts. Roosevelt continued his education at Harvard College, where he graduated in 1903, and then attended Columbia Law School, though he did not graduate.

Roosevelt entered public service through politics as a member of the New York State Senate in 1910. His marriage to Eleanor Roosevelt, his fifth cousin once removed, in 1905, connected him to the influential Roosevelt family and the wider world of American politics. In 1913, he was appointed Assistant Secretary of the Navy by President Woodrow Wilson, a position in which he served until 1920.

Presidency

Roosevelt's presidency, which began on March 4, 1933, was marked by his response to the Great Depression. He implemented the New Deal, a series of programs, public work projects, financial reforms, and regulations. The New Deal included the creation of the Social Security system, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Roosevelt's leadership during the Great Depression helped restore confidence in the American economy.

In foreign policy, Roosevelt moved the United States from a policy of isolationism to one of internationalism, leading the country through the latter stages of the Great Depression and most of World War II. He was instrumental in planning the United Nations and laid the groundwork for the post-war world order.

World War II

Roosevelt's tenure during World War II saw the United States transitioning from a period of neutrality to becoming a major participant in the conflict. After the Attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Roosevelt declared war on Japan, leading the United States into World War II. Under his leadership, the United States became the principal arms supplier and financier of the Allies, significantly influencing the war's outcome.

Death and Legacy

Roosevelt died on April 12, 1945, at his retreat in Warm Springs, Georgia, of a cerebral hemorrhage. His death came just before the end of World War II, and he was succeeded by Vice President Harry S. Truman. Roosevelt's legacy is vast, including his role in establishing the foundation for the modern welfare state in the United States and shaping the nation's role in world affairs.

Roosevelt is remembered for his leadership during some of the 20th century's most significant challenges, including the Great Depression and World War II. His policies and decisions helped shape the course of American politics and foreign policy for decades.

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