Harry Hopkins

Date of Birth: August 17, 1890

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: January 29, 1946

Biography

Harry Lloyd Hopkins was an influential American diplomat and key advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the critical years of the Great Depression and World War II. Born in Sioux City, Iowa, Hopkins began his career in social work after graduating from Grinnell College. His dedication to public service led him to various roles in New York City, where he implemented relief programs during the Great Depression. In 1931, Hopkins was appointed as the executive director of the New York Temporary Emergency Relief Administration, where he gained national attention for his effective leadership. This success led to his appointment as the head of the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) in 1933, and later, the Work Projects Administration (WPA), where he played a crucial role in providing jobs and relief to millions of Americans. During World War II, Hopkins became Roosevelt’s closest advisor on foreign affairs, serving as a liaison to Allied leaders such as Winston Churchill and Joseph Stalin. His diplomatic efforts were instrumental in securing aid for Britain and the Soviet Union through the Lend-Lease program, and he was a key figure in planning major wartime conferences, including Yalta and Tehran. Hopkins’ health was a constant concern, and he battled stomach cancer for many years. Despite his illness, he continued to serve his country until his death in 1946. His legacy as a compassionate and dedicated public servant remains significant in American history.

5 Interesting Facts about Harry Hopkins

1. Harry Hopkins was one of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s closest advisors and was often referred to as Roosevelt’s “Deputy President.”

2. He played a key role in the implementation of the New Deal programs that helped the United States recover from the Great Depression.

3. Hopkins was instrumental in the establishment of the Lend-Lease program, which provided crucial support to Allied nations during World War II.

4. Despite his significant contributions to American history, Hopkins never held an elected office.

5. Hopkins’ health was a major concern throughout his career, and he underwent several surgeries for stomach cancer.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Harry Hopkins

1. “The spirit of man can endure only so much and when it is broken only a miracle can mend it.”

2. “We shall never adjust our differences by hating each other.”

3. “The great social adventure of America is no longer the conquest of the wilderness but the absorption of fifty different peoples.”

4. “People don’t eat in the long run—they eat every day.”

5. “The best way to enter our country is through a port of entry, and the best way to become a citizen is to meet all our requirements.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Harry Hopkins was a public servant and his wealth was modest compared to contemporary business leaders. His highest net worth is estimated to have been around $100,000, primarily from his government salary and modest savings.

Children

Harry Hopkins had three children from his first marriage to Ethel Gross, and one son from his second marriage to Barbara Duncan. His children are: 1. David Hopkins 2. Robert Hopkins 3. Stephen Hopkins 4. Diana Hopkins (from second marriage)