Theodore Roosevelt: "The American Lion"

Overview

• Theodore Roosevelt, one of the four presidents memorialized on Mount Rushmore, was a significant figure in American history.
• He was known for his vibrant energy, ideas, and as a pivotal figure leading America into the 20th century.
• Roosevelt was influential in shaping the modern presidency.

Early Life

• Birth and Family: Born in 1858 to a wealthy New York family.
• Health Challenges: Frail and often sick as a child, encouraged by his father to exercise.
• Education: Attended Harvard University, studied political science.
• Political Ambitions: Envisioned himself in power, aimed to join the governing class.

Political Career Beginnings

• New York State Assembly: Elected at age 23.
• Personal Life: Married Alice Hathaway Lee; their relationship was deeply affectionate.
• Tragedy: Lost both his mother and wife on the same day, leading him to temporarily abandon politics and move west.

Time in the West

• Moved to Dakota Territory, gaining resilience and confidence.
• Formed lasting friendships and became a man of the West.
• Credited his experiences in North Dakota for aiding his eventual presidency.

Return to Politics

• Returned to city life, fought corruption, and pushed for reforms.
• Reconnected and married childhood friend, Edith Carow.
• Grew a large family and maintained a lively home at Sagamore Hill.

National Prominence

• Assistant Secretary of the Navy: Advocated for a stronger U.S. Navy.
• Spanish-American War: Led the Rough Riders in Cuba, gaining national hero status.
• Governor of New York: Elected after his military service.

Vice Presidency and Presidency

• Vice President Nomination: Initially a strategic move by New York politicians.
• Presidency: Assumed presidency after McKinley's assassination; youngest president at age 42.
• Domestic Policies: Advocated for the "Square Deal," targeting monopolies and labor reforms.
• Labor Disputes: Intervened in coal strike, securing better conditions for workers.
• Conservation Efforts: Significantly expanded national parks and forests.

Foreign Policy

• Big Stick Diplomacy: Advocated for strong military presence combined with diplomacy.
• Panama Canal: Facilitated creation and control of the canal, setting a precedent for American international intervention.

Later Years

• Bull Moose Party: Formed the Progressive Party, pushing for advanced social reforms.
• World War I: Criticized Wilson's policy of neutrality, supported U.S. involvement.
• Personal Loss: Faced the death of his son Quentin in the war, which deeply affected him.

Legacy

• Changed the presidency and America's global role.
• Left a lasting impact on conservation and social reform.
• Remembered as a dynamic leader who propelled the U.S. into the 20th century with vigor and innovation.
• Famous for saying: "The joy of living is his, who has the heart to demand it."