The Eleanor Roosevelt Story

The Eleanor Roosevelt Story is a 1965 American documentary film that presents the life and legacy of one of the most influential women in American history, Anna Eleanor Roosevelt. As the wife of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, she became an extremely active First Lady who reshaped the role to suit her pioneering advocacy for civil and human rights. The film combines archival footage, personal documents, and interviews with those who knew her to paint a comprehensive portrait of Eleanor Roosevelt’s life, from her early years to her work after leaving the White House.

Eleanor Roosevelt, born in 1884, was a niece of President Theodore Roosevelt and was born into a life of privilege. However, her upbringing was not one of unmitigated comfort, as she faced personal tragedy and a strict social framework that could be stifling. This documentary takes the viewer through these early years, shedding light on the formative experiences that would later influence her tireless social activism.

The documentary narrator, Archibald MacLeish, a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and writer, lends his voice to the feature, bringing a literary quality to the narrative. Journalist Eric Sevareid also provides commentary, giving historical context to Roosevelt’s life and how it intersected with broader societal changes. Sevareid’s contributions help to ground her story within the tumultuous times she navigated. Corinne Alsop Cole, a friend and associate of Eleanor Roosevelt, offers a more personal perspective, sharing insights into Roosevelt’s character and motivations.

The Eleanor Roosevelt Story delves into how, as First Lady from 1933 to 1945, Eleanor fundamentally changed the role. Previously, the position had been largely ceremonial, but Eleanor approached it with a hands-on attitude that had never been seen before. She traveled the country, hearing the concerns of citizens and witnessing firsthand the struggles Americans faced during the Great Depression. These experiences galvanized her commitment to social causes and became a defining feature of her life's work.

During her husband's presidency, she transformed the position of First Lady by holding press conferences, writing a daily newspaper column, and speaking out on radio broadcasts. She was a staunch fighter for the underprivileged and worked to expand rights for workers, women, and minorities. Her relentless advocacy extended to international issues, as she took a strong stand against the rise of fascism and promoted human rights around the world.

One of the film's focal points is Eleanor Roosevelt’s service as a delegate to the United Nations General Assembly where she played a pivotal role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. After the death of her husband in 1945, she remained a vital figure on the world stage, using her influence to champion the cause of peace and justice.

The Eleanor Roosevelt Story also illustrates how she faced criticism and challenges throughout her public life. Despite personal setbacks and the constraints of her era, she showed remarkable resilience and continued her efforts for social progress. The film outlines her battles both public and private, acknowledging her victories as well as her struggles.

The documentary adeptly intercuts personal elements—her family life, her role as a mother, and her relationships with close confidants—with the grand sweep of her public endeavors. It gives a sense both of the woman behind the legend and of the grand historical figure who left an indelible mark on American politics and society.

A key component of The Eleanor Roosevelt Story is its archival quality. Through photographs, newsreel footage, and Eleanor Roosevelt’s own words, it provides an historical treasure trove that offers a rich and intimate understanding of her times. The impact of these materials is profound, bringing the audience into immediate contact with the era and the personality at the center of the documentary’s narrative.

Ultimately, The Eleanor Roosevelt Story is a documentary that does more than recount the life of a highly respected figure. It illuminates Eleanor Roosevelt’s enduring influence and her belief in the power of individuals to effect change. The film is a testament not only to her accomplishments but also to her spirit of empathy, courage, and dedication to the greater good.

The medium of film offers a dynamic way to explore historical figures, and this documentary is an excellent example of how visual storytelling can bring the past to life. For viewers interested in American history, presidential history, feminist icons, or simply the story of a compelling and profoundly impactful person, The Eleanor Roosevelt Story provides an insightful and memorable viewing experience.