Final answer:
Eleanor Roosevelt was influenced by her husband, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Frances Perkins, the first female cabinet member, and Mary McLeod Bethune, an African American educator and advisor to FDR. Her political partnership with FDR and her advocacy for civil rights were informed by these relationships, as she worked closely with leaders like Bethune to champion various social causes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Eleanor Roosevelt, an eminent figure in American history, was significantly influenced by a variety of notable individuals during her lifetime. Among those who had profound impacts on her perspectives and works were her husband, President Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR), who she aided in his political career before and after his polio diagnosis, and Frances Perkins, the first female cabinet member who served as the Secretary of Labor and championed labor reforms. Additionally, Eleanor Roosevelt was deeply influenced by Mary McLeod Bethune, an African American educator and leader, who played a pivotal role as an advisor to FDR and as part of the "Black Cabinet."
Eleanor Roosevelt's relationship with her husband evolved from one of romance to a mostly political partnership upon her discovery of FDR's affair. This dynamic, however, allowed her to carve out a role as a public advocate, championing causes from women's rights to civil rights, and becoming a bridge between FDR and various social movements. Her advocacy included coordinating with the NAACP, defying segregation laws, and pushing for the inclusion of Black women in the Army Nurse Corps. Moreover, her popular press conferences, which exclusively admitted female reporters, opened doors for women in journalism.
Bethune's direct impact on Roosevelt's policies was evident, as she advised him on racial matters, and her educational triumphs made her an inspirational figure to Eleanor Roosevelt. Through Bethune's approach to build alliances, she was able to generate significant support for her causes, one of which was symbolized by the opening of Midway Hall alongside Eleanor Roosevelt. This partnership exemplified Eleanor's commitment to civil rights and her tremendous impact as a First Lady, well beyond the traditional ceremonial role.