Class Notes on Progressive Presidents: TR and Taft

Continuation of discussing the accomplishments of "progressive presidents."
Recap of Theodore Roosevelt (TR) from the previous lecture.
Introduction of William Howard Taft as TR's successor.
Use of political cartoons to illustrate points about TR and Taft.
Allocation of class time for DBQ (Document Based Question) outline.
Reminder that the DBQ is due on Monday, with support available during class time today and tomorrow.

The DBQ packet may appear daunting but is manageable.
Focus on the following:
- Historical Situation (HIP - Historical context, Intended audience, Purpose, Point of view).
- Full credit achievable with analysis for just two documents.
The first document in the packet is a map.
- Audience of the map is direct: the general public or users of the map.
- Not every element of the packet applies to every document; it's acceptable to leave sections blank.

Political Cartoon featuring TR:
- Depicts Roosevelt engaging in "trust busting".
- Image of TR in different roles: knight, soldier, hunter.
- Theme: TR's approach to managing monopolies and bad trusts.
Cartoon Details:
- Features two bears:
  - Dead bear labeled "bad trusts".
  - Another bear on a leash labeled "good trusts".
  - Interpretation by students indicates the good bear represents monopolies that behave well, whereas the dead bear symbolizes monopolies that do not.
- Discussion raised about TR's philosophy on monopolies being not all inherently bad; regulation is key to controlling them.

Another political cartoon shows TR with a rake labeled 'investigation,' amidst a scene relating to the meat scandal.
- Caption: "A nauseating job, but it must be done."
- Discussion focused on the government's responsibility in relation to business and public health regulation.
- Importance of understanding how TR was influential in calling for investigations and reforms based on issues highlighted in the media.
Event leading to the meat inspection reforms directly credited to Upton Sinclair's book "The Jungle" about unsanitary practices in the meat industry.

TR's departure from the presidency and his decision not to run for re-election in 1908 to maintain integrity with the public.
TR's choice of William Howard Taft as his successor:
- Background: Taft was initially reluctant to run due to his preference for a judicial role.
- Taft had a notable career as governor general of the Philippines and had been close to TR in previous roles.
Taft's demeanor contrasted significantly with TR; he was not a natural politician and lacked enthusiasm for the presidency.

Description of Taft's personality and challenges:
- Struggled with decision-making in a way that differed from TR's assertiveness.
- Known for his weight and humor, became less jovial under the pressures of the presidency.
- Experienced weight gain and personal discomfort while in office.
Taft likely did not support the more aggressive progressive measures initiated by TR.
- Management style was more hands-off, leading to criticisms about his leadership and authority.
Roosevelt's growing frustration with Taft's reversal of his progressive policies.

Rising tensions between TR and Taft leading into the election of 1912.
Campaign dynamics shifted as Taft and Roosevelt, initially allies, found themselves adversaries in the Republican nomination process, impacting the general election.
Split in the Republican vote ultimately allowed for the Democratic candidate Woodrow Wilson's victory in 1912.

The implications of TR's and Taft's contrasting administrations showcased differing approaches to governance and policy.
Taft's efforts in public office respectfully followed some of TR's legacies but also faced his own challenges that led to substantial changes in the political landscape.