Is it acceptable for FDR to do the secret dealings that he did? What are the positives? Negatives?
Acceptable to whom? The answer to your question involves your own philosophy. Do the ends ever justify the means? Or should actions always be legal, moral, and ethical, even though admirable goals may not be achieved in this way?
You may want to read Roosevelt's Secret War by Joseph Perisco.
Here are some additional sites which may give you some ideas.
http://www.paperlessarchives.com/wwii_conferences.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yalta_Conference
http://www.thornwalker.com/ditch/pearl.htm
http://www.rooseveltmyth.com/book/fdrmyth_Chapter_Thirteen___The_Final_Bet.htm
http://www.fff.org/freedom/0792d.asp
http://www.rooseveltmyth.com/book/fdrmyth_Chapter_Eight___The_Thought_Poli.htm
When evaluating whether FDR's secret dealings were acceptable or not, it's important to consider different perspectives and weigh both the positives and negatives. Here are some potential positives and negatives:
Positives:
1. Strategic advantage: FDR's secret dealings may have allowed the US to gain a strategic advantage during World War II. By negotiating secret agreements or engaging in covert operations, FDR may have been able to obtain valuable information or secure alliances that helped in the war effort.
2. Expediency: In certain circumstances, secret dealings can take place faster and more efficiently than public negotiations. This can be particularly important during times of crisis or when time is of the essence.
3. Flexibility: Secret dealings can provide leaders with the flexibility to explore different possibilities and options without public scrutiny. This flexibility can be helpful in finding creative solutions or adapting to changing circumstances.
Negatives:
1. Lack of transparency: Engaging in secret dealings can undermine transparency and democratic principles. It can limit public oversight and accountability, potentially leading to abuses of power or decisions that do not reflect the will of the people.
2. Ethical concerns: Depending on the nature of the secret dealings, there may be ethical concerns. For example, if FDR's secret dealings involved compromising democratic principles or engaging in unethical activities, it can be seen as unacceptable.
3. Historical perspective: The long-term consequences of FDR's secret dealings can be debated. Some argue that they set dangerous precedents and contributed to a lack of trust in government institutions. Others may argue that the positive outcomes outweighed any negatives.
To form your own opinion on the acceptability of FDR's secret dealings, consider reading historical accounts, analyzing different perspectives, and reflecting on your own values and beliefs.