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The Press at the White House: 1933-1941

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When Franklin D. Roosevelt became president, the modern period of president-press relations began. FDR held long and informal press conferences in the Oval Office and began the tradition of an annual press reception modeled after state diplomatic events. FDR was the first president to fully exploit radio as a force to promote his programs and policy. On March 6, 1933, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt became the first wife of a president to hold an official press conference.

The Fireside Chats: Roosevelt’s Radio Talks - Photo 4
Library of Congress

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