Eleanor Roosevelt

Definition

Eleanor Roosevelt was a prominent 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 women's rights, labor rights, and social justice during her husband's presidency, particularly in the context of the impact of wars on women's employment and social status.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eleanor Roosevelt transformed the role of First Lady by actively engaging in political issues and advocating for social reforms.
2. She played a key role in promoting the employment of women during World War II by supporting policies that encouraged women's participation in the workforce.
3. As a member of the United Nations after WWII, she championed human rights and helped draft the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
4. Eleanor often held press conferences exclusively for female journalists, giving them unprecedented access to the White House and amplifying women's voices in media.
5. Her commitment to civil rights and advocacy for marginalized communities set a precedent for future First Ladies and women leaders in politics.

Review Questions

• How did Eleanor Roosevelt redefine the role of First Lady during her husband's presidency?
  • Eleanor Roosevelt redefined the role of First Lady by stepping beyond traditional expectations and actively engaging in political advocacy. She held press conferences, spoke out on issues like civil rights and women's employment, and served as a delegate to the United Nations. Her proactive approach allowed her to become a powerful voice for social change, making her an influential figure in American politics during a transformative era.
• In what ways did Eleanor Roosevelt contribute to women's employment opportunities during World War II?
  • Eleanor Roosevelt was instrumental in promoting women's employment during World War II by advocating for policies that encouraged women to take on jobs traditionally held by men. She supported the creation of the Women's Army Corps (WAC) and other organizations that allowed women to serve in non-combat roles. Her efforts helped change societal perceptions about women's capabilities in the workforce, leading to a significant increase in female labor force participation during the war.
• Evaluate Eleanor Roosevelt's legacy concerning women's rights and social justice after her tenure as First Lady.
  • Eleanor Roosevelt's legacy regarding women's rights and social justice is profound and enduring. After her time as First Lady, she continued to advocate for human rights as a member of the United Nations, co-authoring the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Her relentless pursuit of equality and empowerment for women set a standard for future activists and politicians, inspiring generations to fight for gender equity and social justice across various spheres of life.

Related terms

Women's Army Corps (WAC): A branch of the U.S. Army created during World War II to enable women to serve in non-combat roles, providing opportunities for women to participate in the military effort.

Labor Force Participation: The percentage of women engaging in paid work outside the home, which saw a significant increase during both World Wars due to labor shortages.

Universal Declaration of Human Rights: A landmark document co-authored by Eleanor Roosevelt that outlines fundamental human rights to be universally protected, emphasizing her commitment to social justice.