Eleanor Roosevelt
Full Name and Common Aliases
Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, commonly known as Eleanor Roosevelt, was a towering figure in American history. Often referred to simply as "Eleanor," she was a First Lady, diplomat, and activist whose influence extended far beyond her tenure in the White House.
Birth and Death Dates
Eleanor Roosevelt was born on October 11, 1884, in New York City, and she passed away on November 7, 1962, in New York City.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Eleanor Roosevelt was an American by nationality. Her professions included being a First Lady of the United States, a diplomat, a human rights activist, and a writer. Her multifaceted career and dedication to public service made her one of the most admired women of the 20th century.
Early Life and Background
Eleanor Roosevelt was born into a prominent family, the niece of President Theodore Roosevelt. Despite her privileged background, her early life was marked by personal tragedy. She lost both of her parents by the age of ten, which led her to live with her maternal grandmother. Eleanor's education at Allenswood Academy in London, under the mentorship of Marie Souvestre, was transformative. Souvestre encouraged independent thinking and social responsibility, shaping Eleanor's future path as a compassionate and socially conscious leader.
Major Accomplishments
Eleanor Roosevelt's tenure as First Lady from 1933 to 1945 was unprecedented in its activism and scope. She redefined the role by holding press conferences, writing a daily newspaper column titled "My Day," and speaking out on social issues. Her advocacy for civil rights, women's rights, and the rights of World War II refugees set her apart from her predecessors.
After her husband's death, Eleanor continued her public service. She was appointed as a delegate to the United Nations General Assembly by President Harry S. Truman. In this role, she became the first chairperson of the UN Commission on Human Rights and played a pivotal role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, a landmark document that remains a cornerstone of international human rights law.
Notable Works or Actions
Eleanor Roosevelt's influence extended through her writings and public engagements. Her book, "The Autobiography of Eleanor Roosevelt," offers insights into her life and thoughts. Her advocacy for the New Deal policies during the Great Depression and her efforts to promote racial equality and women's rights were significant. She was instrumental in the creation of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African-American military aviators in the U.S. Armed Forces, and she worked tirelessly to ensure that women were included in the workforce during World War II.
Impact and Legacy
Eleanor Roosevelt's impact on American society and the world is profound. Her work with the United Nations laid the groundwork for future human rights advancements. She was a trailblazer for women in politics and public service, demonstrating that women could wield significant influence in shaping policy and public opinion. Her commitment to social justice and equality inspired future generations of activists and leaders.
Her legacy is also evident in the numerous institutions and awards named in her honor, including the Eleanor Roosevelt Award for Human Rights, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of human rights.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Eleanor Roosevelt is widely quoted and remembered for her wisdom, compassion, and courage. Her quotes often reflect her deep commitment to human dignity and equality. Phrases like, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent," and "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams," resonate with people seeking inspiration and empowerment.
Her ability to articulate complex social issues in a relatable and motivating manner has ensured that her words continue to inspire and guide individuals around the world. Eleanor Roosevelt's life and work exemplify the power of empathy and action, making her a timeless figure whose legacy endures in the ongoing struggle for human rights and social justice.
Quotes by Eleanor Roosevelt
Eleanor Roosevelt's insights on:
Knowledge is learning something every day. Wisdom is letting go of something every day.
Never allow a person to tell you no who doesn't have the power to tell you yes.
You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, ‘I lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.
We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face...we must do that which we think we cannot.
If you have any interests you can gain a wider audience for those interests while the goldfish bowl is yours.
You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself ‘I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.’ You must do the thing you think you cannot do.
You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along. You must do the thing you think you cannot do.