Franklin D. Roosevelt played a significant role in Black history as the President of the United States during a time of immense racial inequality and discrimination. Although his New Deal policies helped to uplift the country from the Great Depression, his record on racial issues was mixed.

Roosevelt's administration did take some steps towards advancing civil rights for African Americans, such as establishing the Fair Employment Practices Committee to address discrimination in the defense industry. He also appointed many African Americans to positions in his administration, known as the "Black Cabinet," which was a notable first in American history.

However, Roosevelt faced criticism for not doing more to challenge systemic racism and segregation in the South. His administration did not actively push for federal anti-lynching legislation or comprehensive civil rights laws during his time in office.

Overall, Franklin D. Roosevelt's legacy in Black history is complex, with some praising his efforts to address racial inequality and others criticizing him for failing to do more to advance civil rights for African Americans.