ELEANOR ROOSEVELT: A TRUE LEADER

Sarah with the Roosevelts

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, located on New Hyde Park, New York, is a fantastic place to learn about our nation’s 32nd president! It is based on both FDR and his wife, Eleanor’s, presidency at the time of the Great Depression, the New Deal, and World War II; and it includes their relationship with the American people. The best part about this museum is visiting the Springwood Estate where the Roosevelts once lived. After going on a tour to check out their home, I thought to myself how beautiful this place truly is. It almost feels as though we were invited to meet with the Roosevelts and to have lunch with them.

What really inspired me while visiting the museum was the life of former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. As I was exploring each and every exhibit of the museum, I was fascinated by the First Lady’s leadership and determination. She was the first First Lady to hold her own press conference, which demonstrated that her leadership abilities were being brought out. I was also fascinated by how selfless and serving Eleanor was.

Because her husband, FDR, was unable to travel owing to the crippling effects of polio on his body, Eleanor traveled around the nation and observed the peoples’ living and working conditions. She was called the President’s “eyes, ears, and legs.” She always reported the information she learned to her husband on her return. But what was truly captivating about her was how active she was. For example, she was involved in the League of Women Voters and she was a strong advocate for those who were poor and those who were minorities like African Americans. Despite being in a dysfunctional relationship with her husband and being criticized for being too involved as a woman, Eleanor continued to work for social and political causes.

It amazes me how involved she was as First Lady. From volunteering at the American Red Cross during WWI to heading the first Presidential Commission on the Status of Women, Eleanor showed her leadership again and again to prove that she was always determined to fight for equality for all people. She was always one step ahead whenever she was actively involved. Even though she remained totally invested in her work, Eleanor still showed humility and compassion towards others, especially those in need. With that being said, I believe that Eleanor Roosevelt is one of the best leaders that the nation ever had.

The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, including the house, is a place truly worth the visit. I encourage everyone to come to New York to visit their estate. After my visit, I can say that I have definitely learned and gained more respect for the Roosevelts, especially for the First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt, a woman I will never forget.