Franklin D. Roosevelt Jr. was an American politician, lawyer, and member of the prominent Roosevelt family. He was the fifth of six children born to President Franklin D. Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. Born on August 17, 1914, in Campobello Island, New Brunswick, Canada, Franklin D. Roosevelt Jr. spent his early life in the public eye due to his family's political prominence.
Early Life and Education
Franklin D. Roosevelt Jr. attended Groton School in Massachusetts and later enrolled at Harvard University, where he graduated in 1937. After completing his undergraduate degree, he went on to study law at the University of Virginia Law School, earning his law degree in 1940. During his time at university, Roosevelt Jr. developed a strong interest in politics and public service, inspired by his father’s leadership and commitment to social reform.
Entry into Politics
Roosevelt Jr.’s entry into politics was marked by his appointment as a secretary to his father, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in 1937. He also worked as an assistant to the Attorney General of the United States from 1939 to 1941. In 1941, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served during World War II, rising to the rank of lieutenant commander. After the war, Roosevelt Jr. began to build his own political career, running for public office and eventually serving as a member of the United States House of Representatives from New York’s 20th congressional district from 1949 to 1951.
| Position | Term |
|---|---|
| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives | 1949-1951 |
| Under Secretary of Commerce | 1963-1965 |
| Governor of New York (candidate) | 1966 |
Roosevelt Jr.'s time in politics was marked by his advocacy for liberal causes and his support for the Democratic Party. He was a strong supporter of his father's New Deal policies and worked to continue his legacy in various roles, including as Under Secretary of Commerce under President John F. Kennedy from 1963 to 1965.
Later Life and Career
After leaving politics, Roosevelt Jr. went on to pursue a career in law and business. He worked as a lawyer and investor, serving on the boards of several companies and organizations. He also remained involved in public life, serving as a trustee of various institutions and supporting charitable causes. Roosevelt Jr. passed away on August 17, 1988, on his 74th birthday, leaving behind a legacy as a dedicated public servant and a member of one of America’s most prominent political families.
Personal Life
Franklin D. Roosevelt Jr. was married five times and had five children. His personal life was marked by both triumph and tragedy, including the death of his first wife, Ethel du Pont, in 1965. Despite the challenges he faced, Roosevelt Jr. remained committed to his family and his community, working to make a positive impact through his public service and philanthropic efforts.
- Roosevelt Jr.'s marriages:
- Ethel du Pont (1937-1965)
- Virginia Piper (1965-1967)
- Felicity Boles (1969-1970)
- Patricia Luisa Oakes (1970-1974)
- Linda McKay Stevenson (1977-1988)
What were Franklin D. Roosevelt Jr.’s most notable achievements in politics?
+Franklin D. Roosevelt Jr.’s most notable achievements in politics include his service as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, his role as Under Secretary of Commerce, and his advocacy for liberal causes. He was a strong supporter of his father’s New Deal policies and worked to continue his legacy in various roles.
How did Franklin D. Roosevelt Jr.’s family influence his career and personal life?
+Franklin D. Roosevelt Jr.’s family had a significant influence on his career and personal life. As a member of the prominent Roosevelt family, he was exposed to politics and public service from a young age. His father’s presidency and his family’s legacy shaped his own political career and personal values, and he worked to continue his father’s legacy in various roles.
