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This Day in American History

April 12

1 historic event on this date

Historical1945

President Franklin D. Roosevelt Dies in Office

President Franklin D. Roosevelt died of a cerebral hemorrhage at Warm Springs, Georgia, during his unprecedented fourth term. Vice President Harry S. Truman was sworn in as president that evening and would oversee the end of World War II.

Why It Matters

FDR's presidency transformed the role of the federal government through the New Deal and wartime leadership, and the peaceful transfer of power during a global crisis demonstrated the resilience of constitutional governance.

Explore the Principles Behind the History

Every event in American history connects to the founding principles. Discover the ideas that shaped these moments.

View the 28 Founding Principles