A Christian and a Democrat

When it comes to consequential US presidents, few have left a bigger mark than FDR. But his faith isn’t something we usually think that much about. Who was FDR? What were his core convictions and commitments? What were the beliefs that gave shape to his long presidency?

A Christian and a Democrat: A Religious Biography of Franklin D. Roosevelt by John Woolverton with James Bratt aims to address those questions. The title of the book comes from FDR's own words when asked what most shaped his political philosophy. Roosevelt's presidency stretched from the darkest days of the Great Depression until the final year of World War II. But this book is more concerned with what animated FDR the man. A lifelong Episcopalian, Roosevelt's faith was understated but real. It guided him as he sought to lead a hurting nation through the colossal, world-altering events of the day.

His wasn't a perfect presidency, nor did FDR excel at all the virtues. But I found this account of his life both illuminating and instructive.