Behind Every Great Man Quote Eleanor Roosevelt
“Behind every great man, there is a great woman.” This quote has been attributed to many people over the years, but one of the most well-known versions comes from former First Lady of the United States, Eleanor Roosevelt. It is a quote that has become synonymous with the idea that women have played an instrumental role in the success of their male partners, and it is a sentiment that still holds true today.
Who was Eleanor Roosevelt?
Eleanor Roosevelt was a remarkable woman who led an extraordinary life. She was born in New York City in 1884, and she married her distant cousin, Franklin D. Roosevelt, in 1905. Over the course of their marriage, Eleanor became one of her husband’s closest advisors, and she was influential in shaping many of his policies and decisions.
Throughout her life, Eleanor was also an outspoken advocate for civil rights, women’s rights, and human rights. She served as the chair of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights from 1946 to 1951, and she played a key role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
What does the quote mean?
At its core, the quote “Behind every great man, there is a great woman” speaks to the idea that success is rarely achieved alone. It acknowledges the significant role that partners, spouses, and other loved ones can play in supporting and encouraging someone to achieve their goals.
For many years, women were often relegated to supporting roles in their male partner’s lives. This quote turns that notion on its head and suggests that women are not just passive supporters, but active participants in the success of their male partners.
How has the quote been used?
Over the years, the quote has been used in a variety of contexts. It has been applied to historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Abraham Lincoln, both of whom had strong and supportive wives. It has also been used to describe the role of women in business, politics, and other fields.
However, some have criticized the quote for perpetuating gender stereotypes and for suggesting that women are only valuable in relation to men. Others have pointed out that the quote ignores the contributions of women who have achieved great things on their own, without the help of a male partner.
Conclusion
Despite its limitations, the quote “Behind every great man, there is a great woman” remains a powerful reminder of the important role that partners, spouses, and loved ones can play in supporting and encouraging success. It is a sentiment that Eleanor Roosevelt embodied throughout her life, and one that continues to resonate with people today.
