Women's History Activator: Eleanor Roosevelt

Eleanor Roosevelt, a prominent figure in human rights advocacy, delivered a powerful speech at the UN in 1948, promoting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Her early life was marked by personal loss, but she grew into a role of public service, marrying Franklin Roosevelt and redefining the role of First Lady. During World War I, she engaged in volunteer work, and after Franklin's polio diagnosis, she became a public face for his administration. Eleanor championed racial equality, notably resigning from the Daughters of the American Revolution to support Marian Anderson. After Franklin's death, she continued her public service as a UN delegate, influencing future First Ladies with her trailblazing initiatives.

What was the outcome of Eleanor Roosevelt's speech at the United Nations in 1948?

• The UN decided to revise the declaration.

• The UN unanimously adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

• The UN postponed the vote on the declaration.

• The UN rejected the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

What significant value did Eleanor Roosevelt's family instill in her during her upbringing?

• The value of artistic expression

• The necessity of political power

• The significance of community service

• The importance of wealth accumulation

How did Eleanor Roosevelt's role change after Franklin Roosevelt was diagnosed with polio?

• She became a major public figure and advocate.

• She moved to a different country.

• She withdrew from public life.

• She focused solely on family matters.

What action did Eleanor Roosevelt take in response to racial discrimination by the Daughters of the American Revolution?

• She resigned and organized an alternative event.

• She ignored the incident.

• She wrote a letter of complaint.

• She joined the organization to change it from within.

What was one of Eleanor Roosevelt's key contributions to the role of First Lady?

• She redefined the role by engaging in political and social issues.

• She avoided public speaking.

• She focused solely on hosting social events.

• She limited her activities to traditional duties.

What role did Eleanor Roosevelt take on after Franklin Roosevelt's death?

• She ran for political office.

• She focused on writing memoirs.

• She became a delegate to the United Nations.

• She retired from public life.

Which of the following First Ladies was NOT mentioned as being inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt's legacy?

• Jackie Kennedy

• Barbara Bush

• Michelle Obama

• Nancy Reagan