Fact Check: Are Franklin D. Roosevelt and Theodore Roosevelt related?

Are Franklin D. Roosevelt and Theodore Roosevelt Related?

The claim that Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) and Theodore Roosevelt (TR) are related has been a topic of interest, particularly due to their shared last name and prominent roles in American history. This article examines the genealogical connections between the two presidents, exploring the nature and degree of their familial relationship.

What We Know

1. Common Ancestor: Both FDR and TR can trace their lineage back to a common ancestor, Claes Maartenszen van Rosenvelt, who immigrated to New Amsterdam (now New York City) in the 17th century. This connection establishes a distant familial tie between the two presidents 18.

2. Degree of Relation: Genealogical sources indicate that FDR and TR are fifth cousins. Their nearest shared ancestor is Nicholas Roosevelt, who lived from 1658 to 1742 3510. This relationship is relatively distant, suggesting that while they are related, the connection is not close.

3. Eleanor Roosevelt's Connection: Eleanor Roosevelt, FDR's wife, is also related to Theodore Roosevelt as his niece. This familial link adds another layer to their relationship, although it does not change the fact that FDR and TR are fifth cousins 5.

4. Genealogical Documentation: Various genealogical resources, including the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and other genealogy websites, provide detailed family trees that trace the connections between the Roosevelts 2469.

Analysis

Source Reliability

• Wikipedia: The entry on the Roosevelt family provides a broad overview and is generally reliable, but it should be cross-referenced with primary genealogical sources for accuracy 1.

• FDR Presidential Library: This source is authoritative as it is maintained by a government institution dedicated to preserving the history of FDR. It provides credible genealogical information 2.

• Enotes and Newsmax: These sources offer interpretations of the genealogical data. While they present factual information, they may also include editorializing that could introduce bias. Newsmax, in particular, is known for its conservative leanings, which could color its presentation of historical facts 35.

• Genealogy Websites: Sites like Famous Kin and WikiTree compile user-generated family trees and connections. While they can be useful, the accuracy of the information can vary based on the contributors' research and the verification processes in place 6710.

Conflicts of Interest

There do not appear to be significant conflicts of interest in the primary genealogical sources, as they are largely factual in nature. However, sources like Newsmax may have a political agenda that could influence how they frame the relationship between the two presidents.

Methodology and Evidence

The genealogical claims are based on historical records and family trees that trace lineage back to the 17th century. However, the accuracy of such genealogical connections can depend on the quality of the records and the thoroughness of the research conducted by genealogists. It would be beneficial to have access to original documents or more comprehensive genealogical studies to further verify these claims.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The evidence supports the claim that Franklin D. Roosevelt and Theodore Roosevelt are related, specifically as fifth cousins. This conclusion is based on genealogical documentation tracing their lineage back to a common ancestor, Claes Maartenszen van Rosenvelt, and the shared ancestry through Nicholas Roosevelt. Additionally, Eleanor Roosevelt's connection as Theodore Roosevelt's niece further emphasizes the familial ties between the two presidents.

However, it is important to note that the relationship is relatively distant, which may not hold significant personal or historical implications. The genealogical connections are based on historical records, and while many sources corroborate this information, the accuracy of genealogical data can vary. Therefore, while the claim is substantiated, readers should remain aware of the limitations in genealogical research and the potential for inaccuracies in historical records.

As always, it is advisable for readers to critically evaluate information and consider multiple sources when exploring genealogical claims or historical relationships.

Sources

1. Roosevelt family - Wikipedia. Link
2. Roosevelt Genealogy - Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum. Link
3. Were Presidents Franklin and Theodore Roosevelt related? - Enotes. Link
4. FDR Genealogy - President Franklin Delano Roosevelt Family History. Link
5. Roosevelt: Theodore and Franklin Share Name, Distantly Related - Newsmax. Link
6. Theodore Roosevelt Family Tree - Famous Kin. Link
7. Franklin Delano Roosevelt - WikiTree. Link
8. President Franklin D Roosevelt - FamilySearch.org. Link
9. Roosevelt Family Facts - FDR Library. Link
10. Family relationship of Franklin D. Roosevelt and Theodore Roosevelt via Famous Kin. Link