Final answer:
Roosevelt's attitude toward blacks was a mix of apparent indifference and subtle support, marked by a complex blend of progressive steps and pragmatic conservatism. His administration was both a reflection of the times' racial attitudes and a catalyst for gradual change toward civil rights advancements.
Step-by-step explanation:
Roosevelt's attitude toward blacks was complex and multifaceted, demonstrating both progressive and conservative tendencies. Initially, Roosevelt appeared indifferent to the civil rights of African Americans by discharging black infantry companies without proper investigation and avoiding being photographed with black leaders. Over time, however, there was subtle support, as seen with the formation of his "Black Cabinet," including figures like Mary McLeod Bethune and the enactment of federal policies that forbade racial discrimination in war-related industries during World War II. Despite his tentative support for civil rights, Roosevelt's policies often had a negligible impact on changing entrenched racial attitudes and policies, particularly in the South.
During his presidency, Roosevelt became the first to effectively speak against lynching and to appoint an African American federal judge, reflecting the slow but historic shift in racial policy. Conversely, limitations placed by New Deal policies and political pragmatism showed a reluctance to wholly embrace racial equality. Still, Roosevelt's administration marked a pivot towards more inclusive politics, setting the stage for later civil rights advancements despite encountering strong opposition from Southern Democrats.