First Lady of the World

"The story is over." That is what Eleanor Roosevelt told reporters several days after FDR's death. She seemed to believe, at least for a moment, that her role on the national stage had ended.

But ER's story was far from over. From 1945 until her death in 1962 she pursued a host of national and - increasingly - international causes. She played a critical role in fostering human rights, tirelessly promoted the United Nations, and became one of liberalism's most effective champions. A constant traveler, she crisscrossed the globe, meeting with citizens and world leaders, investigating conditions, and seeking solutions. She became, in President Harry Truman's words, "First Lady of the World."