"A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent."
-Douglas MacArthur, Chief of Staff of the US Army during the Roosevelt Administration
President Roosevelt was one of America's greatest leaders.
His New Deal led to economic relief, recovery, and reform, and repaired the foundation of the economy which allowed the economic boost of WWII to restore it to normal. The New Deal Coalition he inspired united voters for the next 30 years. His fireside chats forever changed the relationship between the government and the American people. And his executive government reorganization laid the groundwork for modern presidency. Roosevelt displayed confident, courageous, and empathetic leadership, and seized opportunities to shape a legacy of stable reforms. His confidence inspired confidence, and his courage inspired courage. For this, he is consistently ranked among the greatest presidents of all time. Napoleon Bonaparte once said, “A leader is a dealer in hope.” With his unparalleled leadership during the Great Depression, Roosevelt certainly gave Americans hope during dark times and led America to a better and brighter era. His legacy lives on both tangibly in the economy and intangibly in Americans' hearts. |