American Experience

Discussion Questions

These questions help students explore the major ideas and themes in the film. Read a Program Summary for descriptions of specific program segments.

Before Watching

1. Explain to students that, as they will see from the program, the press respected the unwritten rule that FDR never be photographed in any way that indicated that his legs were completely paralyzed. Discuss with students their thoughts about this "agreement." Do they think it was right or should FDR's disability been reported? Why? How do students think this situation would have been dealt with by today's press? Assuming that it would be reported today, do students think a disability such as FDR's would be considered a political liability? Why or why not? How much information do we have a right to know about the president's health or personal life?

2. Ask students what they think the role of the first lady should be -- considering she is not elected--officially or unofficially. Why do they think strong first ladies cause controversy? As students watch the program, have them take notes about how Eleanor Roosevelt contributed to FDR's success as a leader and how she influenced his programs and policies. How do Eleanor's actions as a first lady compare to recent first ladies, such as Laura Bush or Hillary Clinton?

3. Ask students to contribute what they know about what life was like for most people prior to 1933. Where did people in need go for help? What agencies, if any, existed to help the needy, the sick, or the elderly? What happened during national disasters such as hurricanes or drought? What forces drove the economy? As students watch the program, have them notice the changes that FDR's policies and vision brought to the lives of most Americans. How were these reflected in FDR's famous quotation, "We have nothing to fear but fear itself"?

After Watching

1. In what way did the experiences of FDR's early years, particularly his experience with polio, form his personality and views, and influence his behavior and actions as president? What events helped to prepare him for the presidency?

2. Ask students to refer to their notes on Eleanor Roosevelt. What was her role as first lady? How did she influence FDR? How did her involvement in programs and policies affect the country? Would you consider her a valuable role model? Why or why not? Ask students to use examples from the program to support their opinion. Ask students if they would like to revise their earlier view about the appropriate role of the first lady.

3. Was the fact that FDR served for four consecutive terms good for the country? Why or why not? Ask students to use examples from the program to defend their opinions. Do they agree with the 22nd Amendment, which imposed a two-term limit on the presidency? How do they think FDR would have been remembered if he had served only two terms (1933-1941)?