Existing comment:
Franklin D. Roosevelt 1882-1945
Franklin Roosevelt exhibited a public persona that enabled him to transcend his privileged background to reach out to all Americans; ironically, the people who detested him the most tended to be of his own class and background. His speaking style was avuncular and caring, but he never talked down to his audience; his "fireside chats" with the American people set the standard for the use of the modern medium of the radio to communicate with the nation. In his personal dealings, Roosevelt was usually affability itself, displaying a sense of bonhomie and charm that was magnetic. This portrait by Edward Steichen conveys something of the power of Roosevelt's personality as well as the strength of will exemplified by the muscles of his neck and shoulders -- muscles built up by his battle to overcome the effects of polio.
Edward Steichen, 1933 |