FDR was widely considered a second-rate intellect upon taking office and had no economics background (unlike his predecessor Hoover), but he grew into his role through the crisis he faced; similarly, Abraham Lincoln had minimal executive experience (one failed House term, running a small law office), yet became a transformational leader through crisis—demonstrating that leaders are made by historical circumstances, not born.
factualpending
Speaker
Neil HoweEvidence Quote
“FDR...everyone considered him to be kind of a second rate...intellect...he didn't understand anything about the economy...he grew in response to the crisis that he faced...Abraham Lincoln's entire leadership experience consisted of a very unsuccessful one term in the House...his entire executive experience was running a two-man lawyer...law office...he's thrust into the presidency and look at how he did”
Source
Neil Howe: The Fourth Turning Is Now Raging...And It's Gone Global— Adam Taggart | Thoughtful Money®Created: 8/11/2026, 6:39:43 AM
My Notes
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