Franklin D. Roosevelt: A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience As the Memorial to FDR stands tall in Washington, DC, it serves as a reminder of the indelible mark left by one of America's greatest leaders. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, commonly known as FDR, played a pivotal role in shaping the course of history during World War II and beyond. The Yalta Conference held in February 1945 brought together Allied leaders from around the world. FDR's presence at this historic gathering showcased his diplomatic prowess and commitment to securing peace amidst global turmoil. However, it is not just on an international stage that FDR made his mark. His roots can be traced back to Hyde Park in New York's Hudson Valley, where he spent much of his life. Today, the FDR National Historic Site preserves his former home and offers visitors a glimpse into the personal life of this influential figure. Moving southward to Louisiana circa 1940, we catch a glimpse into everyday American life through Marion Post Wolcott's lens. The photograph captures Southern charm while reminding us that even amidst political upheaval, ordinary people continued their daily routines. In Washington D. C. , Gordon Parks' photographs provide insight into different aspects of society during wartime. From an interior view of a Chinese laundry located under an apartment building to Johnnie Lew proudly standing outside his establishment - these images shed light on diverse communities coming together during challenging times. Gordon Parks also documented destruction within our nation's capital with an image capturing the wrecking process along Independence Avenue in 1942. This powerful photo symbolizes both physical reconstruction and societal transformation under President Roosevelt's leadership. FDR was not only focused on domestic affairs but also had a keen interest in scientific advancements. At Langley Research Center in Virginia, he observed groundbreaking research taking place there in July 1940 – showcasing his commitment to progress across all fields. Photographs depicting key moments in FDR's presidency further illustrate his impact.