Teddy Roosevelt

Introduction to Teddy Roosevelt

  • Teddy Roosevelt was the 26th president of the United States (1901-1909).

  • He initially gained significant political influence following his activities in the Spanish-American War.

  • Held several positions: Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Rough Riders leader, Governor of New York, and Vice President.

Assassination of William McKinley

  • The Pan-American Exposition showcased America's industrial achievements.

  • President William McKinley was shot by an assassin while greeting the crowd.

  • Following a botched surgery and infection, McKinley died 8 days later.

  • Roosevelt, as Vice President, was inaugurated following McKinley's death.

Teddy Roosevelt's Personality and Background

  • Had a "larger than life" personality provoking strong opinions about his presidency.

  • Coming from a wealthy family, graduated with honors from Harvard.

  • Experienced personal tragedies, losing his wife and mother on the same day.

  • Developed a rugged cowboy image after moving to the Dakota Territory, where he embraced nature.

Leadership Style and Principles

  • Known for his energetic and forceful approach to leadership.

  • Advocated for the phrase "speak softly and carry a big stick."

  • Promoted the idea of hard work: "I would rather wear out than rust out."

The Panama Canal

  • Roosevelt's significant achievement was the construction of the Panama Canal.

  • Aimed to facilitate transportation for Navy and trade between the east and west coasts.

  • Overcame initial troubles encountered by the French: mountainous terrain and tropical diseases.

  • America bought the project for $40,000,000 from the French, despite limited rights to build the canal.

  • Key action: Cleared the land of mosquitoes to tackle malaria among workers.

  • Collaboration with Panama to revolt against Colombian control, providing military support under the guise of liberating the Panamanians.

  • Construction began in 1904 and utilized a lock system due to varying sea levels, completed by 1914.

Great White Fleet

  • Roosevelt sent the Great White Fleet, containing 16 battleships, around the globe.

  • Served as a demonstration of American naval power and international presence.

Domestic Policies and Progressivism

  • Sought to address corruption and monopolistic practices of the Gilded Age.

  • Disapproved of muckrakers for merely exposing problems without solving them.

  • Developed the "Square Deal" policy to ensure fairness in business practices, consumer protection, and natural resource conservation.

  • Promoted a strong National Park System and advocated for conservation.

Trust Busting

  • Roosevelt is known as the "Trust Buster," tackling monopolies that exploited the public.

  • Supported regulations for good trusts while seeking to dismantle harmful monopolies.

  • Focused on balancing corporate power for the benefit of the general populace.