Known for his amazing New Deal social program that benefited the working class, aided the elderly, and promoted the expansion and support of artists, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, known by his initials of FDR, held the office of President of the United States for four terms. His focus was on improving the infrastructure and social system of the United States. With the end of the Great Depression, Roosevelt wanted to remain neutral in the war that was occurring in Europe, but with the declaration of war on the United States by Germany and Italy, the United States began a campaign fueled by the fervor of a nation that had worked its way into an industrial powerhouse.
As a young boy growing up in New York City, the young Franklin D. Roosevelt had many privileges. He had private tutors, was able to travel to Europe frequently, and was able to attend Harvard and eventually become a lawyer after passing his bar examination. After working with corporate law cases on Wall Street, he decided to try something different – something more fulfilling where he would make a social difference.
During this transition time, he married Eleanor Roosevelt, his fifth cousin, and involved himself in politics as Eleanor’s uncle, Theodore Roosevelt, was the President of the United States. The two had six children, none who would be able to surpass the shadow of their parents. Woodrow Wilson soon appointed Franklin Secretary of the Navy for his support at the Democratic Convention. This would prepare him for his role at leading a nation at war in his successive terms in office as President.
While in New Brunswick, Canada, FDR contracted polio and never overcame the illness, even though he set up organizations to help find a vaccine and a cure. He also founded the March of Dimes. He entered political life again and became the governor of New York. He began garnishing support to become the Democratic Candidate for president. He did so and ran the race with charm, pizzazz, and a new ideology for America. He defeated Hoover for the presidency by over five million votes. During his time in office, known for reform and rebuilding, he set a new precedent for the path of America. However, even with the formation of the Axis Powers through the United Nations, the stress of the war and failing health led to his death.