10 fun and interesting Franklin D. Roosevelt facts

1. A Life in Pictures

Franklin Delano Roosevelt, commonly referred to as FDR, was born on January 30, 1882 and passed away on April 12, 1945. He was a major political figure in the mid-20th century, leading the United States through the Great Depression and World War II. His New Deal policies helped to bring the country out of economic hardship, while his leadership during the war was instrumental in the Allied victory. FDR's legacy continues to shape the American political landscape to this day.

Also → Herbert Hoover's Attempts to Avert the Great Depression

2. The Strong and Influential President

Franklin D. Roosevelt is renowned for his strong and influential personality, and is the only American President to have been elected for more than two terms. He was elected for an unprecedented four terms, serving from 1933 to 1945, and is the only President to have served more than two terms in office. His leadership during the Great Depression and World War II was instrumental in helping the United States to become a global superpower.

Also → 33rd President of the United States: Harry S. Truman

3. Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal Coalition Shaped American Politics

Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal Coalition was a major force in reshaping American politics in the aftermath of the 1932 election. His domestic policies, which defined American liberalism in the middle third of the 20th century, included a range of initiatives such as Social Security, the Fair Labor Standards Act, and the Tennessee Valley Authority. These policies helped to create a more equitable society and provided a foundation for the nation's economic recovery.

Also → Lee De Forest Backs Then Blasts FDR

4. FDR Wins Historic Election Amid Depression

In November 1932, Franklin D. Roosevelt defeated Republican Herbert Hoover in the midst of the Great Depression, with the popular campaign song 'Happy Days Are Here Again' as his theme. This election was a pivotal moment in American history, as FDR's victory marked the beginning of a new era of hope and optimism for the nation. His New Deal policies helped to bring the country out of the depths of the Great Depression, and his legacy continues to be remembered today.

Also → Theodore Roosevelt: An Extraordinary Man Who Made History

5. FDR's 100 Days: Relief, Growth, Reform.

Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated his first 100 days in office to leading and executing the various programs of the New Deal. These programs were designed to provide relief, generate economic growth, and reform the society as a whole. To achieve these goals, Roosevelt created job opportunities, accelerated economic growth, and improved the transportation system. He also implemented a number of other initiatives, such as the Social Security Act, the National Labor Relations Act, and the Agricultural Adjustment Act, which helped to stabilize the economy and improve the lives of millions of Americans.

Also → Ulysses S. Grant: 2 Terms of Stability

6. FDR & World Orgs: A Lasting Legacy

Franklin D. Roosevelt was a key figure in the creation of two major international organizations: the Bretton Woods system and the United Nations (UN). His influence was instrumental in the establishment of the Bretton Woods system, which established the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, and the UN, which was founded in 1945 to promote international cooperation and peace. Roosevelt's vision of a world in which nations could work together to solve global problems was a major factor in the creation of these two organizations.

Also → Roosevelt & Churchill: A Fencing Bond

7. One of the Greatest U.S Presidents

Franklin D. Roosevelt is widely regarded as one of the greatest U.S Presidents of all time, consistently ranking in the top three alongside George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. His legacy is remembered for his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II, as well as his New Deal policies which helped to bring the country out of economic hardship. His commitment to social justice and civil rights also made him a beloved figure in American history.

Also → Franklin Pierce: A Key Figure in the Mexican-American War

8. FDR: Progressive Liberal Icon

Franklin D. Roosevelt was a liberal Democrat who was known for his progressive policies. He was a strong advocate for the working class and believed in the power of government to improve the lives of citizens. He famously described his political position as "a little left of the center," indicating his commitment to progressive ideals while still maintaining a moderate stance. Roosevelt's legacy of progressive policies continues to shape the American political landscape today.

9. Franklin D. Roosevelt's Life Changed After Contracting Polio

While vacationing with his family on Campobello Island, Canada, Franklin D. Roosevelt contracted Polio, leaving him permanently paralyzed from the waist down. This devastating diagnosis changed the course of his life, as he was forced to adapt to a new way of living and eventually became the only president to serve four terms in office. Despite his physical disability, Roosevelt was able to lead the United States through the Great Depression and World War II, becoming one of the most influential presidents in American history.

10. FDR's Dog Fala: Comfort and Joy

Franklin D. Roosevelt was rarely seen without his beloved canine companion, Fala, during his time in the White House. Fala was a constant companion to the President, and was even credited as the 'most photographed dog' of the era. He was often seen accompanying Roosevelt on his travels, and was even featured in a few of his speeches. Fala was a beloved member of the Roosevelt family, and his presence in the White House was a source of comfort and joy for the President.