“There are practical little things in housekeeping which no man really understands.”
- October 11, 1884 – November 7, 1962
- American
- First Lady of the United States, Diplomat, Human Rights Advocate, Chair of the UN Human Rights Commission
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Quote
“There are practical little things in housekeeping which no man really understands.”
Explanation
In this quote, Eleanor Roosevelt makes a wry observation about the gendered divide in domestic knowledge, pointing out that the subtle, often invisible details of managing a household tend to go unrecognized—particularly by men. The phrase “practical little things” highlights that while these tasks may seem minor, they require skill, attentiveness, and experience, and are foundational to daily life.
Roosevelt was not only a political figure but also someone who lived through the traditional expectations placed on women in the early 20th century. She used her platform to elevate the importance of domestic labor and challenge assumptions that it was trivial. With this remark, she likely intended both a humorous critique and a subtle defense of the intelligence and effort behind housekeeping.
Today, the quote remains relevant in conversations about gender roles, labor equity, and the value of unpaid work. It reminds us that what is often dismissed as “simple” or “natural” domestic duty is in fact a form of expertise, frequently overlooked by those who benefit from it. Roosevelt’s insight calls for greater recognition and shared responsibility in everyday life, especially within the home.
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