Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt: Their Essential Wisdom

Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt: Their Essential Wisdom invites readers to revisit the words of our 32nd President and his First Lady, both of whom made an indelible mark on American history, as individuals and as a couple.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt had a strength, vigor, and determination that allowed him to overcome personal tragedy and successfully lead the country through an unparalleled four terms as president. Elected at the height of the Great Depression, he swiftly enacted sweeping legislation to put the country back to work. He then brilliantly maneuvered the nation through the dark days of World War II. Employing a vigorous leadership style and a can-do spirit of optimism, Franklin did much to give Americans faith and hope when they needed it most.

Anna Eleanor Roosevelt is widely held as the greatest First Lady the nation has ever seen. Called the most beloved and revered woman of her generation, she devoted herself to his causes, acting as his “eyes, ears, and legs” during his presidency. A tireless champion of disadvantaged people everywhere, Eleanor fought tirelessly for humanitarian causes until her death in 1962. While the Roosevelts shared an unconventional marriage, perhaps even by today’s standards, it was a rock-solid partnership based on trust and mutual respect that lasted for more than forty years.

Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt: Their Essential Wisdom collects hundreds of quotations from their speeches, broadcasts, remarks, letters, diaries, and other writings that reveal their thoughts on politics, history, leadership, education, and social justice. In more personal selections, Franklin and Eleanor poignantly express their love for one another, their children, and their life together. A powerful collection that celebrates two giants of American history, Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt: Their Essential Wisdom offers a revealing glimpse of this extraordinary couple.