Peer Review Two
It is true that although America has witnessed several great presidents the contribution of Franklin Delano Roosevelt or FDR cannot be questioned. He was a great symbolic leader and helped U.S.A to overcome some of its tribulations such as the Great Depression. His form of character and leadership reminds me of the late 16th president of the U.S.A Abraham Lincoln. He not only made constitutional changes for our country but also freed up slaves. Moreover, he did instill values hat as a country it did set the foundation for our progress. Currently, we are considered as the leading nation across, and this is due to the contribution of presidents such as FDR. On the other hand, FDR also reminded me of Nelson Mandela, a leader who took initiative to bring changes to his nation (South Africa) through the illustration of aptitude, humility, and great symbolism.
I do agree with your recognition of one of FDR statements, which was during his first inaugural address that “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” (History, 2009). This statement also reminded me of Barrack Obama’s speech at the democratic convention in Massachusetts in 2012. He stated there was only one state, which is the United States. Therefore, there was no need for divisions within the society based on color, race, or religion. It is through such statements that society can be able to reflect on themselves and take a step back and decide on what would they do to make changes in their communities. In other words, such statements act as a driving force for changes in our societies, and al these are associated with the aspect of symbolism displayed by the initiators of changes.
I have also come across the Rosie the Riveter “We Can Do It!” poster once when perusing various historical documents on the internet. At the time, I was not aware of its origins and purpose and I am quite shocked and impressed to find out that it was utilized to drive the recruitment of the female workers during the world war II. This was a very tormentors’ period for our country and I am refreshed to discover that symbolism played a crucial role in helping a society fight war as well as recover. Besides, women played a huge role in helping our country fight the war as well as the reconstruction phase. It is great through such a vision and approach that the female percentage of the United States workforce increased from 27% to 37%. (History, 2010). Our current leaders and community mobilizers should draw inspiration from such approaches if they are to effect fundamental changes in their societies. Generally, I do agree that the two symbols paled a crucial role in helping FDR becoming a successful president given his contribution in helping America become fruitful in world war II. As an individual, I have managed to learn a lot from what it takes to be a leader based on your write-up and I do know that this knowledge would prove to be vital in my present and future life.