Feeling FDR: Did Franklin D. Roosevelt Combat Racism in the United States?
Feeling FDR: Did Franklin D. Roosevelt Combat Racism in the United States?
There is a common belief that President Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) was a champion for racial equality in the United States. However, this perception is often misplaced and ignores his more controversial actions and the historical context of his era. FDR's relationship with the issue of racism is multifaceted and multifarious, and examining his early political career and policies can provide a clearer understanding of his stance.
The Wilson Administration and the Origins of Institutional Segregation
One must look at FDR's earlier political career to understand his stance on race. FDR worked as the Undersecretary of the Navy under the Wilson Administration. This period is often overlooked in modern historical accounts, but it was marked by unprecedented efforts to promote segregation in the Federal government. The 1914 incident involving Wilson and William Monroe Trotter serves as a stark example of the racial issues within the government during FDR's tenure.
Before the Civil War, federal employment and service in the military were critical refuges from institutional racism for Black Americans. However, the arrival of the Wilson Administration marked a significant shift. Under Wilson, federal offices saw unprecedented levels of segregation. A specific incident in the Oval Office in 1914, where President Wilson threw civil-rights leader William Monroe Trotter out, represents a shameful part of his legacy.
Segregation Orders and Promoting Racism
It is important to highlight the evidence of FDR’s involvement in segregation orders. While serving as Undersecretary of the Navy, FDR signed several Jim Crow segregation orders. Specifically, an archived memo from 1932 provides concrete evidence of his actions during this period. This document is likely in the public domain, given the copyright duration and renewal rules of the time, making it a valuable resource for historians and researchers.
Roosevelt Memo
From The Chicago Defender, October 15, 1932, p.1, col.1, we can see that even as late as 1932, race relations were still governed by the "Atlanta Compromise," an agreement from 1895 that had long legitimized segregation and disenfranchisement of Black Americans. FDR's policies did not address these issues, and it was not a pressing concern for him during his time in office.
FDR's Legacy and Harry Truman's Advocacy for Civil Rights
President Harry Truman, FDR's successor, is often commended for his efforts to combat racism. In 1948, Truman issued Executive Orders 9980 and 9981, which de-segregated the U.S. government and the U.S. Armed Forces. These actions were particularly significant as they were taken during an election year, despite the risk of losing support from hard-core Southern segregationalists.
Truman's actions were not politically motivated but rather a reflection of his belief in justice and equality. Truman was likely the only Democratic President before Barack Obama who actively supported Black Americans' rights simply because he believed it was the right thing to do.
Conclusion
Franklin D. Roosevelt's relationship with the issue of racism in the United States is complex and often misunderstood. While he did not actively promote racism through his policies, his role in enacting and supporting segregation orders during his tenure as Undersecretary of the Navy is a critical part of his legacy. It was not until after FDR's death, during Harry Truman's presidency, that meaningful steps were taken to address institutional racism in America.