The Man He Became: How FDR Defied Polio to Win the Presidency
The basic premise of this book—that Roosevelt’s struggle to overcome polio was a transformative episode in his life—seems undeniable. After all, Roosevelt, a previously vigorous man, never walked unassisted as a result of the disease. But Tobin, an associate professor of journalism at Miami University of Ohio, goes much further than recounting the obvious physical limitation imposed upon Roosevelt. Rather, Tobin convincingly asserts that the struggle to overcome the disease and to resume an active life transformed Roosevelt’s character. It added steel to his personality, led to his appreciation for human suffering, and even added additional fire to his already burning political ambition. Tobin offers very useful context by describing the nature of the polio virus, especially for those too young to recall what a terrifying and devastating malady it was before a vaccine was developed. Roosevelt’s grueling efforts at rehabilitation are described in detail. This is a well-done and informative study of a critical component in the life of a giant in American history. --Jay Freeman