Book SummaryFDR, by Jean Edward Smith

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of FDR

Roosevelt's early years and family background

He grew up in an environment of affluence, as an only child.

The nurturing and close bond with his parents, James and Sara Delano Roosevelt, had a deep impact on FDR's personality and character.

The affluent surroundings of his upbringing profoundly shaped Franklin D. Roosevelt's character. Franklin Delano Roosevelt originated from a wealthy and distinguished lineage in the Hudson River region. Sara Delano Roosevelt created a supportive environment that instilled in her son a strong conviction in his capabilities and significantly shaped his character.

Smith emphasizes the profound relationship Franklin D. Roosevelt had with his relatives, particularly the intense bond he had with his mother. Sara's careful focus on the subtle aspects of her son's formative years distinguished her from the usual wealthy households of the era. She was a devoted and attentive mother who ensured her son Franklin received a comprehensive education and expanded his worldview through extensive travel throughout Europe. The nurturing environment of his family had a deep impact on Roosevelt, fostering his natural charm, optimistic perspective, and unwavering belief in his capabilities. Smith suggests that the serene atmosphere of the Springwood estate played a crucial role in nurturing the confidence and resilience that would later characterize FDR's methods for tackling challenges in his personal and political life.

Context

• The Hudson River Valley was known for its scenic beauty and was home to many affluent families during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This area was a hub of economic and cultural activity, influencing residents with its blend of natural beauty and societal privilege.
• She instilled in him a strong sense of duty and public service, often discussing the importance of helping others and contributing to society, which influenced his future policies and leadership style.
• By taking FDR on extensive trips to Europe, Sara exposed him to diverse cultures and political systems, broadening his understanding of the world and reinforcing his belief in his ability to engage with global issues.
• Sara Delano Roosevelt's nurturing and supportive parenting style likely influenced FDR's approach to leadership, emphasizing empathy, communication, and a personal connection with the public.
• Attention to his health and physical activities could have been a focus, promoting resilience and adaptability, traits that were crucial during his presidency.
• Sara herself came from a wealthy and well-traveled family, which likely influenced her belief in the importance of international exposure and education for her son.
• The estate was not only FDR's birthplace but also his primary residence throughout his life. It became a place where he developed his political ideas and strategies, hosting important figures and meetings.

He journeyed extensively throughout Europe.

Travel was instrumental in broadening the scope of Roosevelt's perspective on the world, as Smith highlights. Franklin accompanied his parents on their annual European voyages across the Atlantic from a young age. He traveled to England, France, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland, where he was...

FDR Summary His rise to prominence was marked by a series of political and administrative achievements, ultimately leading to his election as President.

Roosevelt embarked on his journey in politics by securing a position in the legislative body of New York State.

Franklin D. Roosevelt seized the opportunity to engage in a political career, driven by his initial ambitions.

Smith meticulously outlines Roosevelt's initiation into politics, highlighting the role of serendipity, his intrinsic ambition, and the impact of his familial political legacy in propelling the Harvard alumnus to a notable status. An opportunity arose in 1910. At twenty-eight, FDR managed his time between working at a prestigious Wall Street law firm, living in a townhouse in New York City, and frequently visiting his family's estate in Hyde Park as well as Campobello Island in Maine. He lacked a specific vocation or aspiration. Democratic party officials in Dutchess County, while scouting for a nominee to occupy a specific but uninspiring position in the New York State Legislature, discovered that FDR eagerly embraced the opportunity to make his mark.

Smith illustrates how the initial electoral challenge swiftly evolved into a more complex competition. When a chance presented itself for FDR to contest the position held by a seasoned politician in...

FDR Summary The profound influence of the New Deal on domestic policy.

Initial actions to address the economic turmoil referred to as the Great Depression were enacted at the onset of the response period.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt's unique style of leadership and the extensive range of New Deal programs

Smith explores the decisive and immediate measures implemented by Roosevelt's administration, highlighting the swift creation of a multitude of programs and agencies during an unparalleled period of legislative achievement in American history, referred to as the initial hundred days. The author analyzes the unique leadership style of Roosevelt, characterized by his informal influence on legislative processes, direct engagement with the press, and various other aspects. He had an extraordinary ability to soothe the concerns of a troubled country. The legislature acted swiftly in response to the President's call to action, granting him unprecedented authority over the nation's finances, agricultural sectors, and the broader economic framework.

During this critical phase, Smith provides insightful commentary on the broad powers bestowed upon the President. He argues that these changes fundamentally redefined the responsibilities inherent in...

FDR Summary Franklin D. Roosevelt's stewardship during World War II and his direction during the turmoil.

Initially, the United States embraced a policy of non-intervention, marked by the implementation of legislation to ensure neutrality and by adopting a cautious strategy regarding the preparedness of its military forces.

The country's sentiment and his reluctance to prepare the nation for war

Smith emphasizes that FDR's reluctance to prepare the nation for warfare stemmed from his deep-seated apprehension.

He took a gamble that could have split the Democratic party, potentially jeopardizing his transformative societal agenda. Roosevelt's approach to international relations was not as forceful as that of his cousin, TR. FDR's intervention in Haiti in 1915 and his fervent backing of the U.S. president's policies during World War I showcased his propensity for international involvement, occurring at a time when the Panama Canal was in its early operational phase and the Monroe Doctrine was the measure of America's foreign engagement boundaries. In the 1930s, the dominant view among the public staunchly opposed the idea of sending American troops to engage in disputes on European or Asian soil.

The mindset persisted until 1938, when Hitler's ambitions for enlarging his...