Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1914

Biography

Franklin Delano Roosevelt, also known as FDR, was the 32nd president of the United States, serving from 1933 until his death in 1945. He is the longest-serving U.S. president and the only one to have served more than two terms. His first two terms were centered on combating the Great Depression, while his third and fourth focused on U.S. involvement in World War II. A member of the Democratic Party, Roosevelt served in the New York State Senate from 1911 to 1913 and as the 44th governor of New York from 1929 to 1932.

Timeline

The story of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, told in moments.

1914 Birth

Born Franklin Delano Roosevelt Jr. in Campobello Island, New Brunswick. Fifth child of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt. Named after his father.

Named after the most powerful man in the world. Was that a gift or a sentence? Growing up on Campobello Island. What was it like being FDR s son?

1940 Event

Married Ethel du Pont, heiress to the du Pont chemical fortune. The wedding at the du Pont estate in Wilmington drew 500 guests. It was the social event of the season.

Marrying a du Pont heiress. Was that your rebellion against the Roosevelt name? 500 guests at your wedding. Was any of it for you?

1944 Event

Served as a naval officer in the Atlantic and Mediterranean during World War II. Earned the Silver Star and Purple Heart. Saw action on destroyer escorts.

A Silver Star and Purple Heart. Were you proving something to your father? Did serving on destroyer escorts feel different because of who you were?

1949 Event

Won a congressional seat representing New York. Served three terms in the House of Representatives, advocating for civil rights legislation his father had avoided.

Advocating for civil rights your father avoided. Was that intentional? Three terms in Congress. Did you ever consider the presidency?