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FDR: A Life of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, by Jean Edward Smith

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FDR

by Jean Edward Smith

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11524 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1293 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Jean Edward Smith's biography of Franklin Delano Roosevelt is a masterful work that provides a comprehensive and nuanced portrait of one of the most influential presidents in American history. Drawing on a wealth of primary sources, Smith offers a fresh and insightful look at FDR's life and career, from his early years in Hyde Park, New York, to his time as governor of New York and president of the United States.

Smith's biography is particularly strong in its treatment of FDR's presidency. He provides a clear and concise overview of the major challenges that FDR faced, including the Great Depression and World War II. He also offers a thoughtful analysis of FDR's policies, such as the New Deal and the Lend-Lease Act.

One of the most striking things about Smith's biography is his ability to capture the complexity of FDR's character. He portrays FDR as a brilliant and charismatic leader, but also as a flawed and often contradictory figure. Smith does not shy away from FDR's personal life, including his struggles with polio and his extramarital affairs.

Overall, Jean Edward Smith's biography of Franklin Delano Roosevelt is a must-read for anyone interested in American history. It is a well-written, informative, and thought-provoking work that provides a fresh and insightful look at one of the most important figures in the nation's history.

FDR's Early Life and Career

Franklin Delano Roosevelt was born on January 30, 1882, in Hyde Park, New York. He was the only child of James Roosevelt, a successful businessman, and Sara Delano Roosevelt, a prominent socialite. FDR grew up in a wealthy and privileged environment, but he was also exposed to the realities of poverty and inequality at an early age.

FDR attended Groton School and Harvard College, where he excelled academically. He then studied law at Columbia Law School, but he never practiced law. Instead, FDR entered politics, serving in the New York State Senate from 1910 to 1913.

In 1913, FDR was appointed Assistant Secretary of the Navy by President Woodrow Wilson. He served in this position until 1920, when he was elected to the United States Senate. FDR served in the Senate for eight years, during which time he became a leading voice for progressive causes.

FDR's Presidency

In 1932, FDR was elected president of the United States. He took office at a time when the country was in the midst of the Great Depression. FDR's New Deal policies helped to stabilize the economy and create jobs. He also led the United States through World War II, and he played a key role in the Allied victory.

FDR served as president for four terms, from 1933 to 1945. He is the only president in American history to have served more than two terms. FDR died in office on April 12, 1945, just weeks before the end of World War II.

FDR's Legacy

FDR is remembered as one of the most important presidents in American history. His New Deal policies helped to lift the United States out of the Great Depression, and his leadership during World War II helped to secure the Allied victory. FDR also played a key role in the creation of the United Nations.

FDR's legacy is complex and controversial. He was a brilliant and charismatic leader, but he was also a flawed and often contradictory figure. However, there is no doubt that FDR was one of the most important figures in American history, and his presidency left a lasting impact on the nation.

FDR

by Jean Edward Smith

4.7 out of 5