FDR Fireside Chat… Building “The Arsenal of Democracy”…

February 2, 2026 by  
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For those of you who have seen the most recent update of The Hall of Presidents located in Disney World, the following narration may sound familiar…

“FDR, paralyzed by polio, knows how to restore the faith of a people paralyzed by the great depression. He has found the inner strength his countrymen now need. He speaks to us like a friend, a neighbor.  His optimism is contagious… his voice, perfect for the latest breakthrough medium, radio. He calls us to believe we have nothing to fear but fear itself… and we do believe.”

If you have seen this production, you can hear the narrator’s rich voice echo through the auditorium. Those living in 1933, could have listened to FDR deliver this powerful inaugural address live, and those who missed it, could have read it in its entirety the next day in the New York Times.

Years later, on December 29, 1940, FDR gave his, now famous, “Great Arsenal of Democracy” fireside chat, and again attempted to rally America to rise to her best and brightest. People could again read the entire speech in newspapers the following day, including the December 30, 1940, New York Times. Throughout American history, we see the importance of a president sitting and talking with their people as an important connection point for both the president and the populous… words of truth and encouragement from their leader who should put the citizenry ahead of themselves and hold what is best for the America as their highest priority. May that be the legacy of every president.

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