Wendell L. Willkie was an American lawyer and politician born on February 18, 1892. He was the Republican Party's nominee for president in the 1940 election, challenging incumbent Franklin D. Roosevelt. Although he lost the election, Willkie's campaign brought attention to his progressive views and his support for internationalism. After the election, he served as an informal adviser to President Roosevelt and advocated for American involvement in World War II. Willkie's legacy includes his contributions to the Republican Party and his efforts to promote international cooperation.