How did having polio change Roosevelt?

Having polio profoundly changed Franklin D. Roosevelt both personally and politically. The disease left him paralyzed from the waist down, forcing him to confront significant physical challenges and adapt to a new reality. This experience deepened his empathy for those facing adversity, influencing his policies and leadership style as he championed social welfare programs during the Great Depression. Ultimately, it shaped his resilience and determination, allowing him to connect with the American public in a way that would define his presidency.