Study Questions
1. In a variety of ways Eleanor Roosevelt observed closely the impact on America of the Great Depression. What are some notable examples of the hardships caused by the Depression as revealed in this chapter?
2. Eleanor had feared that she would lose her own autonomy in the role of First Lady-traditionally a ceremonial position, but in fact she used that role more effectively than any other first lady, before of since, to affect public policy and public opinion. How do the following demonstrate her resourcefulness Arthurdale, the "Gridiron Willows," the Marian Anderson concert, "My Day"? What are other examples of her influence?
3. Lorena Hickok was Eleanor Roosevelt's closest friend during the early years of her time in the White House. What was the texture of their personal friendship; that is, what did they offer each other as companions? How did Lorena contribute to Eleanor's understanding of the state of the Nation during the Depression?
4. Later in life Eleanor Roosevelt wrote of her White House years: "It was almost as though I had erected someone a little outside myself who was the President's wife. I was lost somewhere deep down inside myself." How could she sat this, and what did she lose in becoming First Lady?
1. In a variety of ways Eleanor Roosevelt observed closely the impact on America of the Great Depression. What are some notable examples of the hardships caused by the Depression as revealed in this chapter?
2. Eleanor had feared that she would lose her own autonomy in the role of First Lady-traditionally a ceremonial position, but in fact she used that role more effectively than any other first lady, before of since, to affect public policy and public opinion. How do the following demonstrate her resourcefulness Arthurdale, the "Gridiron Willows," the Marian Anderson concert, "My Day"? What are other examples of her influence?
3. Lorena Hickok was Eleanor Roosevelt's closest friend during the early years of her time in the White House. What was the texture of their personal friendship; that is, what did they offer each other as companions? How did Lorena contribute to Eleanor's understanding of the state of the Nation during the Depression?
4. Later in life Eleanor Roosevelt wrote of her White House years: "It was almost as though I had erected someone a little outside myself who was the President's wife. I was lost somewhere deep down inside myself." How could she sat this, and what did she lose in becoming First Lady?
