Publication of The Roosevelts of Hyde Park

Elliott Roosevelt published a personal biography titled The Roosevelts of Hyde Park: An Untold Story, which provided an intimate look into the lives of his parents, Franklin D. Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt. The book included revelations about Franklin's relationships with his mistress, Lucy Mercer, and his secretary, Marguerite LeHand, as well as candid discussions about his health struggles, particularly the illness that left him disabled. Additionally, the biography offered insights into Franklin's political career, detailing his journey from vice presidential candidate to the governorship of New York and ultimately to the presidency in 1932, highlighting the influence of political advisor Louis Howe. The publication of this book sparked significant controversy within the Roosevelt family, leading to a public denunciation by Elliott's brother, Franklin Jr., and a strong repudiation from all of Elliott's siblings, who disapproved of the personal nature of the revelations and the portrayal of their parents.