Anna Eleanor Roosevelt (/ ˈɛlɪnɔːr ˈroʊzəvɛlt / EL-in-or ROH-zə-velt; Octo – November 7, ) was an American political figure, diplomat, and activist. [5][6] She was the longest-serving first lady of the United States, during her husband Franklin D. Roosevelt 's four terms as president from to [5] Through her travels, public engagement, and advocacy, she.