The Crisis Of The Old Order

1. Franklin D. Roosevelt's privileged upbringing shaped his worldview

"In thinking back to my earliest days," he wrote many years later, "I am impressed by the peacefulness and regularity of things both in respect to places and people."

Aristocratic roots. Franklin D. Roosevelt was born into a life of privilege on January 30, 1882, at Hyde Park, New York. His father, James Roosevelt, was a wealthy landowner and businessman, while his mother, Sara Delano Roosevelt, came from a prominent family. This upbringing provided FDR with a sense of security and entitlement, but also instilled in him a deep sense of noblesse oblige – the belief that with great privilege comes great responsibility.

Formative experiences.

• Extensive travel in Europe
• Exposure to different cultures and ideas
• Development of a cosmopolitan outlook
• Early interest in politics and public service

FDR's childhood experiences, including his travels abroad and interactions with his cousin Theodore Roosevelt, helped shape his worldview and planted the seeds for his future political career.

2. FDR's education at Groton and Harvard fostered leadership skills

"More than forty years ago," he wrote to the old Rector in 1940, "you said, in a sermon in the old Chapel, something about not losing boyhood ideals in later life. Those were Groton ideals—taught by you—I try not to forget—and your words are still with me and with the hundreds of others of 'us boys.'"

Character formation. FDR's education at Groton School and Harvard University played a crucial role in developing his leadership skills and moral compass. At Groton, under the tutelage of Reverend Endicott Peabody, Roosevelt was exposed to the ideals of Christian service and social responsibility that would shape his future political philosophy.

Networking and skills.

• Developed public speaking abilities
• Honed social and diplomatic skills
• Formed lasting connections with future leaders
• Gained experience in student journalism at Harvard

At Harvard, Roosevelt further refined his leadership abilities, serving as president of the Harvard Crimson newspaper and developing the social skills that would serve him well in his political career.

3. Early political career marked by anti-corruption stance

"There is nothing I love as much as a good fight," he told the New York Times with true Rooseveltian gusto. "I never had as much fun in my life as I am having right now."

Breaking from the machine. FDR's entry into politics as a New York State Senator in 1910 was marked by his willingness to challenge the established political order. His opposition to the Tammany Hall-backed candidate for U.S. Senate, William F. Sheehan, established his reputation as an independent thinker and reformer.

Building a reputation.

• Stood up against political bosses
• Championed progressive causes
• Gained national attention for his anti-corruption stance
• Developed a taste for political combat

This early display of political courage and principle set the stage for FDR's future career, demonstrating his willingness to challenge entrenched interests in pursuit of what he believed to be right.

4. Marriage to Eleanor Roosevelt: A partnership of contrasts

"I was growing very dependent on my mother-in-law, requiring her help on almost every subject, and never thought of asking for anything which I felt would not meet with her approval."

Complementary strengths. The marriage of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt brought together two individuals with very different personalities and backgrounds. Eleanor's insecurity and empathy for the less fortunate complemented Franklin's confidence and political ambition, creating a powerful partnership that would shape American politics for decades.

Evolution of the relationship.

• Initial dependence on Sara Roosevelt
• Eleanor's gradual development of independence
• Shared commitment to public service
• Mutual support in political endeavors

Despite personal challenges, including FDR's affair with Lucy Mercer, the Roosevelt marriage evolved into a formidable political alliance, with Eleanor becoming a crucial adviser and advocate for her husband's policies.

5. FDR's evolution from aristocrat to champion of the common people

"It is an extraordinary thing to me," he once exploded, "that people who are financially interested should not be able to see more than about six inches in front of their noses."

Broadening perspective. Through his experiences as a state senator and his interactions with a diverse range of constituents, FDR began to develop a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary Americans. This evolution marked a significant shift from his aristocratic upbringing to a more populist outlook.

Key factors in FDR's transformation:

• Exposure to labor issues and worker rights
• Championing conservation and natural resource management
• Recognizing the limitations of unfettered capitalism
• Developing empathy for the struggles of the working class

This gradual shift in perspective laid the groundwork for FDR's future New Deal policies and his reputation as a champion of the common people.

6. Conservation and progressive ideals form core of FDR's political philosophy

"If we use the word 'liberty' in conjunction with the word 'community,'" Roosevelt said, "we necessarily give to that word 'liberty' a higher and nobler meaning than where the same word was applied to the individual."

Balancing individual and community needs. FDR's political philosophy, as articulated in his 1912 speech in Troy, New York, emphasized the need to balance individual liberty with the greater good of the community. This perspective formed the foundation for his approach to governance and policy-making.

Key elements of FDR's philosophy:

• Emphasis on conservation of natural resources
• Support for government regulation of business
• Belief in the necessity of economic planning
• Advocacy for labor rights and social welfare programs

FDR's evolving political ideology set the stage for his future presidency and the transformative policies of the New Deal era.

7. FDR's charisma and adaptability key to his political success

"Jim, old pal—put it right there—great work."

Natural politician. FDR's charisma, adaptability, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life were crucial factors in his political success. His warm personality and engaging speaking style helped him win over supporters and navigate complex political landscapes.

Key attributes:

• Excellent public speaking skills
• Ability to project confidence and optimism
• Talent for building coalitions and managing diverse interests
• Flexibility in adapting his message to different audiences

These qualities, honed through his early political experiences, would serve FDR well throughout his career, enabling him to lead the nation through the Great Depression and World War II.

Last updated: August 20, 2024