PRESIDENTS DAY
Born: January 30, 1882 at Hyde Park, New York.
Education: Graduated from Harvard; attended Columbia Law School.
Occupation: Lawyer, public official.
Religion: Episcopalian.
Family life: Married Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, a cousin in 1905. They had five sons and one daughter; one son died in infancy. When Franklin Roosevelt was stricken with poliomyelitis in 1921, she tended him devotedly. She became active in the women's division of the State Democratic Committee to keep his interest in politics alive. From his successful campaign for governor in 1928 to the day of his death, she dedicated her life to his purposes. She became eyes and ears for him, a trusted and tireless reporter. After the President's death in 1945 she returned to a cottage at his Hyde Park estate; she told reporters: "the story is over." Within a year, however, she began her service as American spokesman in the United Nations. She continued a vigorous career until her strength began to wane in 1962. She died in New York City that November, and was buried at Hyde Park beside her husband.
Political career: Entered politics in New York State, named assistant Navy Secretary, 1913-20. Democratic vice-presidential candidate in 1920. Remained active desipte polio attack in 1921; elected New York governor, 1929-33, and easily won 1932 presidential election. Because of the Depression and World War II, he was reelected three times, but died in office.
Highlights of his presidency: First one hundred days marked by major legislation New Deal. Fought the Supreme Court, which declared several acts unconstitutional. Committed United States to Allied cause in World War II, working closely with Churchill. Strong advocate of United Nations.
Appearance: Tall and solidly built, with high forehead; after crippling polio attack, wore leg braces, later used wheel chair. Wore pince-nez glasses.
Died: As the war drew to a close, Roosevelt's health deteriorated, and on April 12, 1945, while at Warm Springs, Georgia, he died of a cerebral hemorrhage.
Buried: At his Hudson Valley estate at Hyde Park, New York.
