Sudden Death of a President | The Secret Service
Abraham Lincoln | John F. Kennedy | Andrew Jackson | James A. Garfield | Theodore Roosevelt | Franklin D. Roosevelt 


Franklin Roosevelt's funeral procession, 1945

Courtesy of Library of Congress

Franklin D. Roosevelt held the office of president longer than anyone, more than twelve years. Under his direction, the United States endured two of its most significant and overwhelming crises, the Great Depression and World War II.

The nation had grown used to Roosevelt's leadership and was comforted by his presence, thanks in part to the strategic use of radio and his "fireside chats." So when Roosevelt died suddenly at Warm Springs, Georgia, on April 12, 1945, Americans were devastated.


Automobile lap robe with hand-embroidered presidential seal used by Franklin Roosevelt.

Pince-nez glasses and case
Along with his hat and cigarette holder, pince-nez glasses helped create the popular image of Roosevelt as a jaunty and vibrant president.



Roosevelt funeral procession and mourners
Roosevelt's long tenure in office, his ability to lead the nation at times of crisis, and the suddenness of his death all contributed to the sweeping sense of loss experienced by most Americans in the spring of 1945.

Courtesy of Library of Congress

Sheet music, "He Was Your Friend and Mine"
Songs like this one demonstrate a connection between FDR and millions of Americans that helps explain why his death was viewed as a personal loss.



                 Home | Press | Site Map | Help | Credits
National Museum of American History