Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) was born on January 30th, 1882, in Hyde Park, New York. As he was born into the famous Roosevelt family, expectations were high. He graduated from Harvard in 1904 and from Columbia Law School in 1908. He was a member of the Democratic party.
In 1910, New Yorkers elected Roosevelt to the Senate of the state. Thus, his political career began at the age of 28. During World War I, he worked in the US Department of the Navy. However, his promising career took a hit in 1921. While vacationing, he felt sick and ended with both his legs paralyzed. Despite his injuries, he continued in his work in politics.
In 1928, Franklin Roosevelt won the race for governor of New York. He held this office until 1932. His governorship helped him launch his bid to become the next president.
✟ April 12, 1945, Georgia, USA
Presidency of Franklin Roosevelt
The Great Depression defined the 1930s. Consequently, FDR had a plan to tackle it. In his campaign for the Presidents office, he presented the New Deal. He beat Republican Herbert Hoover to take office on March 4th, 1933. He became the 32nd president. Americans re-elected him in 1936, 1940, and 1944. Thus, he became the only president to serve more than two terms.
In 1939, World War II broke out. However, the USA stayed neutral. That changed after Japan attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941. Thus, FDR now stood at the helm of the Allied forces.
His presidency was successful. He helped the USA through the Great Depression and ended the alcohol prohibition. Besides, his decisive leadership was essential during the war. Yet, it also had faults. For example, he created massive debt. Further, he was too trustworthy of the Soviet Leader Josip Stalin.
He married his fifth cousin Eleanor Roosevelt. They had six children together. He was related to the 26th president of the USA, Theodore Roosevelt. Loved by liberals, hated by conservatives, Franklin Delano Roosevelt died on April 12th, 1945.
“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
FDR during his first inaugural speech
