33 Facts About Eleanor Roosevelt

Early Life and Family

Eleanor Roosevelt's early life shaped her into the influential figure she became. Here are some fascinating facts about her beginnings.

1. 01Born on October 11, 1884, in New York City, Eleanor Roosevelt was the niece of President Theodore Roosevelt.
2. 02Her parents, Elliott and Anna Hall Roosevelt, were part of New York's high society.
3. 03Eleanor faced tragedy early on, losing both parents by the age of ten.
4. 04Raised by her strict grandmother, Mary Ludlow Hall, she developed a strong sense of duty and responsibility.
5. 05Eleanor attended Allenswood Academy in London, where headmistress Marie Souvestre greatly influenced her intellectual growth.

Marriage and Family Life

Eleanor's marriage to Franklin D. Roosevelt was a pivotal part of her life. Their relationship and family dynamics were complex and intriguing.

6. 06Eleanor married her fifth cousin, Franklin D. Roosevelt, on March 17, 1905.
7. 07President Theodore Roosevelt gave Eleanor away at her wedding.
8. 08The couple had six children, though one died in infancy.
9. 09Eleanor and Franklin's marriage faced challenges, including his affair with her social secretary, Lucy Mercer.
10. 10Despite marital issues, Eleanor remained a supportive partner throughout Franklin's political career.

Political Involvement

Eleanor Roosevelt was not just a First Lady; she was a political force in her own right. Her activism and advocacy set her apart.

11. 11During World War I, Eleanor volunteered with the American Red Cross and in Navy hospitals.
12. 12She became an influential member of the Women's Trade Union League.
13. 13Eleanor was a key figure in Franklin's political campaigns, often making public appearances on his behalf.
14. 14As First Lady, she held press conferences exclusively for female reporters.
15. 15She was a vocal advocate for civil rights, often clashing with segregationist politicians.

Human Rights Advocacy

Eleanor's commitment to human rights was unwavering. Her work in this area left a lasting legacy.

16. 16She chaired the United Nations Commission on Human Rights from 1946 to 1951.
17. 17Eleanor played a crucial role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
18. 18She advocated for the rights of African Americans, women, and the poor.
19. 19Eleanor supported the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American military aviators.
20. 20She was a driving force behind the establishment of the United Nations.

Literary Contributions

Eleanor Roosevelt was also a prolific writer. Her books and columns reached a wide audience and influenced many.

21. 21She wrote a daily newspaper column, "My Day," from 1935 until her death in 1962.
22. 22Eleanor authored several books, including her autobiography, "This Is My Story."
23. 23Her book "It's Up to the Women" encouraged women to take active roles in society.
24. 24She used her writing to address social issues and promote her humanitarian causes.
25. 25Eleanor's literary work helped shape public opinion on important issues of her time.

Later Years and Legacy

Eleanor Roosevelt's influence extended well beyond her time as First Lady. Her later years were marked by continued activism and public service.

26. 26After Franklin's death in 1945, Eleanor continued her public service, focusing on human rights and social justice.
27. 27She served as a delegate to the United Nations General Assembly.
28. 28Eleanor was a member of the National Advisory Committee of the Peace Corps.
29. 29She received numerous awards and honors, including the United Nations Human Rights Prize in 1968.
30. 30Eleanor Roosevelt passed away on November 7, 1962, but her legacy endures.

Fun and Lesser-Known Facts

Eleanor Roosevelt's life was full of interesting and lesser-known details that add depth to her story.

31. 31She was an avid traveler, visiting troops during World War II and touring the South Pacific.
32. 32Eleanor was a skilled amateur photographer, capturing many moments of her life and work.
33. 33She enjoyed horseback riding and often used it as a way to relax and reflect.

Eleanor Roosevelt's Lasting Impact

Eleanor Roosevelt's life was filled with remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to human rights. She transformed the role of the First Lady, using her position to advocate for the disenfranchised and marginalized. Her work with the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights left an indelible mark on global human rights policies. Eleanor's resilience and compassion continue to inspire generations, reminding us that one person can indeed make a difference. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched and the progressive changes she championed. Whether through her writings, speeches, or activism, Eleanor Roosevelt's contributions remain a testament to her extraordinary life and unwavering commitment to justice and equality.