Explore the life of Franklin D. Roosevelt, from his affluent upbringing and political rise to his transformative New Deal policies and leadership during World War II. Discover how his personal battle with polio shaped his disability policies and how his vision for the post-war world order contributed to the founding of the United Nations.
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Franklin D. Roosevelt was born into a wealthy family in Hyde Park, New York
Private Tutors
Roosevelt received his education from private tutors
Groton School, Harvard College, and Columbia Law School
Roosevelt attended prestigious schools for his secondary and higher education
Roosevelt's exposure to the working class during his travels with his family instilled a sense of social responsibility in him
In 1910, Roosevelt was elected to the New York State Senate as a Democrat
During his time in the State Senate, Roosevelt advocated for progressive policies
In 1913, President Woodrow Wilson appointed Roosevelt as Assistant Secretary of the Navy, where he excelled in expanding the U.S. Navy and preparing for potential involvement in World War I
Roosevelt's inauguration in 1933 marked the beginning of the New Deal, a set of federal programs and reforms aimed at providing relief, stimulating economic recovery, and preventing future economic crises
Agencies Established
The New Deal established agencies such as the AAA, NRA, and TVA
Landmark Legislation
The Social Security Act and other legislation provided a safety net for the elderly and unemployed, while creating jobs and leaving a lasting impact on the nation's infrastructure and social policies
In his 1941 State of the Union address, Roosevelt articulated a vision for a world founded on four essential human freedoms, which became a rallying point for the Allies and influenced America's entry into World War II
Roosevelt oversaw the transition to a wartime economy and his administration's policies, such as the Lend-Lease Act, significantly supported the Allies before the U.S. formally joined the war
Roosevelt's decision to initiate the Manhattan Project led to the development of nuclear weapons, changing the nature of warfare
At the age of 39, Roosevelt was stricken with polio, which influenced his perspective on disability rights and his commitment to social welfare policies for individuals with disabilities
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Birthplace and date of Franklin D. Roosevelt
Born in Hyde Park, New York, on January 30, 1882.
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Educational background of Franklin D. Roosevelt
Educated by private tutors, attended Groton School, Harvard College, and Columbia Law School.
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Franklin D. Roosevelt's role during WWI
Assistant Secretary of the Navy, expanded U.S. Navy, prepared nation for WWI.
