Eleanor Roosevelt

Definition

Eleanor Roosevelt was an American political figure, diplomat, and activist who served as the First Lady of the United States from 1933 to 1945. She played a crucial role in advocating for human rights and was a key figure in the establishment of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights after World War II, making her a significant contributor to the development of international human rights norms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eleanor Roosevelt was instrumental in pushing for social justice reforms during her time as First Lady, championing issues like labor rights and racial equality.
2. She traveled extensively during her husband's presidency, visiting troops and impoverished communities, which helped raise awareness of social issues.
3. Eleanor played a vital role in the formation of the United Nations after World War II, emphasizing the need for a global framework to protect human rights.
4. As the first chairperson of the Human Rights Commission, she advocated for the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which was adopted in 1948.
5. Eleanor Roosevelt's legacy as a human rights advocate continues to inspire activists today, as she emphasized the importance of individual dignity and equality.

Review Questions

• How did Eleanor Roosevelt's role as First Lady influence her later work in human rights advocacy?
  • As First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt transformed the position into a platform for social change by actively engaging with various social issues. Her experiences traveling and meeting with marginalized communities shaped her understanding of inequality and injustice. This firsthand exposure laid the groundwork for her later involvement in the establishment of international human rights standards after World War II.
• What were some key contributions Eleanor Roosevelt made to the United Nations and the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?
  • Eleanor Roosevelt's contributions to the United Nations were pivotal; she served as the first chairperson of the Human Rights Commission and was instrumental in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Her leadership ensured that the document reflected diverse perspectives on human dignity and rights. Through her advocacy, she emphasized the importance of protecting individual freedoms on a global scale.
• Evaluate Eleanor Roosevelt's lasting impact on human rights discourse and how her actions have influenced contemporary movements.
  • Eleanor Roosevelt's impact on human rights discourse is profound and enduring. By championing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, she established foundational principles that continue to guide contemporary movements advocating for social justice and equality. Her insistence on addressing issues such as poverty, racial discrimination, and gender equality resonates with current activists, illustrating how her vision remains relevant in today's fight for human rights worldwide.

Related terms

Universal Declaration of Human Rights: A milestone document adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948 that outlines fundamental human rights to be universally protected.

United Nations: An intergovernmental organization founded in 1945 to promote international cooperation, peace, and security, which Eleanor Roosevelt helped shape during its early years.

Human Rights Commission: A UN body established to promote and protect human rights worldwide, where Eleanor Roosevelt served as the first chairperson.