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Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt, GI No.1, Fallen on April 12, 1945
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt, GI No.1, Fallen on April 12, 1945

Artifact IDMO 1950.101.8
Object Type Cartoon
Artist (Polish-American political cartoonist and book Illustrator, 1894-1951)
Date1945
Mediumpaper, ink, pencil
Dimensionsframe H 17 5/16 in x W 15 13/16 in x D 3/4 in (44 cm x 40.2 cm x 1.9 cm )
image H 9 in x W 9 1/2 in (22.9 cm x 24.1 cm )

Physical DescriptionAn original pen and ink drawing featuring the illustration of three soldiers - British, Russian, and American - each in military uniform and standing respectfully in front of a cross in the ground. Written on the cross is the text: FRANKLIN DELANO ROOSEVELT / GI No. 1 / FALLEN/ ON / APRIL12 / 1945. In the lower right of the cartoon is the artist's signature and inscription that reads: ARTHUR SZYK, His soldier in Art. . . . / April 13, 1945, on Friday / New York.

The cartoon is matted, glazed, and framed in a 3/4" black painted wood frame with gilt inner trim.
Historical NoteAfter FDR's death on April 12, 1945 Americans created a variety of tributes to their fallen President. This drawing, sent by artist Arthur Szyk to Eleanor Roosevelt, is one such example.



Additional Details
Custodial History NoteDonated to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum by Eleanor Roosevelt.
Credit LineGift of Eleanor Roosevelt
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedCopyrightReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
Not on view
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