Eleanor Roosevelt's Social Circle Includes Jews

Eleanor Roosevelt's evolving social circle reflects a significant shift in her attitudes towards Jewish individuals. Initially, she exhibited antisemitic tendencies, as evidenced by a letter in which she expressed disdain for what she referred to as the 'Jew party.' This early perspective was shaped by her upbringing and the social norms of her time, which often marginalized Jewish communities. However, as she matured, her interactions and relationships began to change. By the late 1920s, she had formed connections with prominent Jewish figures, including Elinor and Henry Morgenthau Jr., Bernard Baruch, Edith and Herbert H. Lehman, and labor leader Rose Schneiderman. This diversification of her social circle marked a departure from her earlier views and indicated a broader acceptance of Jewish individuals in her personal and professional life. The impact of these relationships extended beyond personal connections; they played a role in shaping her views on social justice and civil rights. Roosevelt's friendships with Jewish leaders coincided with her increasing involvement in humanitarian efforts and advocacy for marginalized groups. The Morgenthaus, for instance, were influential in her understanding of the Jewish experience in America, particularly in the context of the Great Depression and the rise of fascism in Europe. Roosevelt's engagement with Jewish communities also contributed to her later work as a delegate to the United Nations, where she championed human rights. This transformation in her social circle not only reflects her personal growth but also highlights the broader societal changes regarding Jewish acceptance in America during that period.