1. FDR

2. FDR (Franklin Delano Roosevelt)
32nd President of the United States
Sometimes called the beginning of the “Modern Presidency”

3. Background
Franklin Roosevelt was a distant cousin to Theodore Roosevelt.
From a very wealthy NY family.
Grew up in an atmosphere of privilege.
Harvard Graduate-Columbia Law
Very competitive.
Married his 5th cousin, Eleanor.

4. Eleanor Roosevelt

5. Political Career
Went into politics right after Law School to win a seat in the NY State Senate.
Paid for his own campaign
Thought to be a “Paper Candidate”.
Immediately became known as a progressive reformer- stood up to party bosses (Tammany Hall).
Similar to his cousin’s shaking up the Republicans.

6. FDR: Polio

7. POLIO
Few people knew at the time he was elected President, that FDR had contracted polio in 1921 and was paralyzed at the legs.
During the time he was ill, Eleanor overcame her shyness and spoke publicly for Franklin.

8. The Depression in the US

9. Governor Roosevelt of NY (with former Gov. Al Smith)
Cut taxes for farmers
Reduced electric, gas and water rates.
Started relief to poor New Yorkers without Federal help.

10. Supported Wilson in 1912
Was rewarded with an appointment as Undersecretary of the Navy
Expanded the Navy and
created the Navy Reserve.
Ran for US Senate in 1914 but
Was not supported by Wilson.
Wilson supported the Tammany
Candidate.
Ran for Vice President in 1920.(with Cox)

11. John Maynard Keynes: Modern Liberalism

12. FDR’s New Deal
FDR Inaugural Speech (text) (audio of oath of office and inaugural speech)
Fireside Chats

13. Electoral Realignment
(72 years)
56 years Republican;
16 years Democratic
(48 years)
32 years Democratic;
16 years Republican
Atlas of Presidential elections