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One of the most significant women in United States history crusaded for human rights during the 1930s and 1940s. Eleanor Roosevelt, wife of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, actively influenced efforts by the government to provide relief for people during the Great Depression and World War II era. During President Roosevelt’s life and even after his death, Eleanor Roosevelt continued her crusade for worldwide human rights, including the well-being of children.
Carefully read an excerpt from Eleanor Roosevelt’s speech on human rights. The excerpts are from her speech known as “The Struggle for Human Rights,” delivered on September 28, 1948, in Paris, France. As you read, think about the following questions:- What facts are presented in the speech?
- What opinions are presented in the speech?
- How might her background, experiences and role as first lady have influenced her opinions?
During her time as first lady and even after the death of her husband, Eleanor Roosevelt led a crusade for human rights.
Image Source: FDR Library Opens a new window
One of the purposes of the United Nations is declared in article 1 to be: "to achieve international cooperation in solving … economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian [problems], and in promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and for fundamental freedoms for all …”
We in the United States have come to realize it means freedom to choose one’s job, to work or not to work as one desires … people have a right to demand that their government will not allow them to starve because as individuals they cannot find work … and this is a decision … which came as a result of the great depression in which many people were out of work, but we would not consider in the United States that we had gained any freedom if we were compelled to follow a dictatorial assignment to work where and when we were told.
The final expression of the opinion of the people with us is through free and honest elections, with valid choices on basic issues and candidates. The secret ballot is essential to free elections … I have heard my husband say many times that a people need never lose their freedom if they kept their right to a secret ballot … Basic decisions of our society are made through the expressed will of the people. That is why when we see these liberties threatened, instead of falling apart, our nation becomes unified and our democracies come together as a unified group in spite of our varied backgrounds and many racial strains.
– Eleanor Roosevelt, The Struggle for Human Rights - Sept. 28, 1948
Source: Archive of Women’s Political Communication at Iowa State University Opens a new window.
