U.S. Presidents

A Detailed Timeline of Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidency

Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, served from March 4, 1933, to April 12, 1945. His presidency, one of the longest in U.S. history, was marked by transformative domestic and international events, including the New Deal, World War II, and significant changes in American governance and policy. This article provides a detailed timeline of Roosevelt’s presidency, highlighting key events and milestones.

The New Deal Era: 1933-1934

  • March 4, 1933: Franklin D. Roosevelt is inaugurated as the 32nd President of the United States. His inaugural address includes the famous line, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself,” setting the tone for his administration’s response to the Great Depression.
  • March 9, 1933: Roosevelt signs the Emergency Banking Act into law. This Act aims to stabilize the banking system by closing banks temporarily, inspecting their financial health, and reopening only those deemed solvent. The Act is part of Roosevelt’s first major legislative push to address the financial crisis.
  • March 12, 1933: Roosevelt delivers his first “Fireside Chat” over the radio. This address explains the banking reforms to the public and helps restore confidence in the financial system. Roosevelt’s use of radio for direct communication with the American people became a hallmark of his presidency.
  • May 12, 1933: The Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA) is signed into law. This Act aims to raise crop prices by paying farmers to reduce production. The AAA is part of Roosevelt’s New Deal program designed to provide relief to farmers and stabilize agricultural markets.
  • June 16, 1933: The National Industrial Recovery Act (NIRA) is signed into law. NIRA established the Public Works Administration (PWA) and the National Recovery Administration (NRA) to stimulate industrial recovery and create jobs. The NRA is tasked with regulating industries and setting fair labor standards.
  • November 8, 1933: Roosevelt establishes the Civil Works Administration (CWA) to provide temporary jobs and relief to the unemployed. The CWA is part of Roosevelt’s broader New Deal effort to address the immediate needs of those affected by the Great Depression.

Expanding the New Deal: 1935-1936

  • May 6, 1935: The Works Progress Administration (WPA) is created. The WPA provides employment through public works projects, including infrastructure improvements, educational programs, and artistic endeavors. It became one of the most significant New Deal agencies in terms of job creation and public service.
  • August 14, 1935: The Social Security Act is signed into law. This landmark legislation establishes a system of old-age pensions, unemployment insurance, and assistance for dependent children and the disabled. It represents a significant expansion of the federal welfare state.
  • October 29, 1935: The WPA officially begins operations. Over the next several years, the WPA employs millions of Americans in various public works projects, contributing to the nation’s infrastructure and cultural development.
  • July 2, 1936: Roosevelt delivers his second inaugural address, emphasizing the continued need for the New Deal and the fight against economic inequality. His address reflects his administration’s ongoing commitment to addressing the challenges of the Great Depression.

The Second Term and World War II: 1937-1941

  • March 9, 1937: Roosevelt proposes his “court-packing” plan, aiming to increase the number of Supreme Court justices. The proposal is intended to overcome opposition to New Deal legislation but faces strong criticism and is ultimately unsuccessful. The plan generates significant controversy and affects Roosevelt’s political capital.
  • April 14, 1938: Roosevelt delivers his “fireside chat” on the subject of the economy, expressing concern over the economic downturn and advocating for continued New Deal programs. This chat reflects Roosevelt’s ongoing efforts to communicate directly with the American public.
  • September 1, 1939: World War II begins with the German invasion of Poland. Roosevelt’s administration faces the challenge of navigating American foreign policy amid the growing global conflict.
  • March 11, 1941: Roosevelt signs the Lend-Lease Act into law. This legislation allows the U.S. to provide military aid to Allied nations fighting against the Axis powers. The Act reflects Roosevelt’s commitment to supporting allies while keeping the U.S. officially neutral in the early stages of World War II.

Entering World War II and Wartime Leadership: 1942-1945

  • December 7, 1941: The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor leads to the U.S. entry into World War II. Roosevelt delivers his famous “Day of Infamy” speech to Congress, which results in a declaration of war against Japan and marks the beginning of U.S. involvement in the global conflict.
  • January 1, 1942: Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill issue the “Declaration by United Nations,” which outlines the principles of the Allied war effort and establishes a framework for cooperation among the Allied nations.
  • June 6, 1944: D-Day, the Allied invasion of Normandy, takes place. Roosevelt’s leadership during World War II is characterized by his close coordination with Allied leaders and his role in strategic planning for the war effort.
  • October 7, 1944: Roosevelt meets with Churchill and Soviet Premier Joseph Stalin at the Yalta Conference. The conference addresses post-war planning and the future of Europe, including discussions on the establishment of the United Nations.
  • April 12, 1945: Franklin D. Roosevelt dies at his retreat in Warm Springs, Georgia. His death marks the end of his presidency and leads to the assumption of office by Vice President Harry S. Truman. Roosevelt’s death occurs just as World War II is drawing to a close, and he is remembered for his leadership during a period of profound change.

Legacy and Impact

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency is characterized by several key achievements and enduring legacies:

  • New Deal Programs: Roosevelt’s New Deal represents a significant expansion of the federal government’s role in economic and social policy. Programs like Social Security, the WPA, and the AAA fundamentally reshape the American welfare state and provide a safety net for millions of Americans.
  • World War II Leadership: Roosevelt’s leadership during World War II is marked by his ability to forge strong alliances, coordinate military strategy, and navigate the complexities of global conflict. His role in establishing the United Nations reflects his commitment to international cooperation and peace.
  • Public Communication: Roosevelt’s use of radio, particularly his “Fireside Chats,” revolutionizes presidential communication and helps build public support for his policies. His direct engagement with the American people becomes a model for future presidents.
  • Political Realignments: Roosevelt’s presidency leads to significant political realignments, including the strengthening of the Democratic Party and the establishment of new political coalitions. His New Deal policies and wartime leadership influence American politics for decades to come.

Conclusion

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency is one of the most transformative periods in American history. His New Deal programs fundamentally reshape the role of the federal government and provide crucial support during the Great Depression. His leadership during World War II helps to guide the nation through a global conflict and set the stage for post-war diplomacy and international cooperation. Roosevelt’s legacy is marked by his innovative policies, effective communication, and enduring impact on American governance and global affairs.