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Eleanor Roosevelt


Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962) was an American diplomat, activist, and First Lady of the United States from 1933 to 1945, during the presidency of her husband, Franklin D. Roosevelt. She was a significant figure in American politics, known for her advocacy for civil rights, women's rights, and humanitarian causes.

Early Life

Born Anna Eleanor Roosevelt on October 11, 1884, in New York City, she was the niece of President Theodore Roosevelt. Despite her privileged background, Eleanor faced personal challenges, including the loss of both her parents at a young age and an unhappy childhood due to family dynamics.

Politics

She married Franklin D. Roosevelt, her distant cousin, in 1905. Throughout their marriage, Eleanor played a pivotal role in Franklin's political career, serving as his advisor and confidante. Despite Franklin's infidelity, Eleanor chose to remain married and focused on her own pursuits, which increasingly involved public service.

As First Lady, Eleanor transformed the role, using her position to advocate for social reform and human rights. She held press conferences, wrote a syndicated newspaper column, and travelled extensively across the country, often visiting communities affected by poverty and unemployment during the Great Depression. She was a vocal supporter of the New Deal policies initiated by her husband, aimed at alleviating economic hardship.

After Franklin's death in 1945, Eleanor continued her activism, becoming a delegate to the United Nations General Assembly. She played a key role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which was adopted by the UN in 1948. This declaration remains a foundational document in the international protection of human rights.

Legacy

Throughout her life, Eleanor Roosevelt remained committed to social justice, advocating for marginalized groups, including African Americans, women, and children. Her legacy as a champion of human rights and progressive causes endures, and she is remembered as one of the most influential First Ladies in American history.


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