The Bull Moose Theodore Roosevelt Theodore Roosevelt Born

The “Bull Moose” Theodore Roosevelt

Theodore Roosevelt Born in NY state; wealthy Very small, shy as a young boy Lifted weights to overcome the problem of being smaller than everybody else Rose up through New York political system Youngest president to hold office at 42 years old (after death of Mc. Kinley) Very bold, strong, determined

Roosevelt and the “Rough Riders” Volunteers to fight in the Spanish American War Group of Roosevelt’s buddies sign up to help fight Battle of San Juan Hill – thanks to the Buffalo Soldiers, Roosevelt makes it out alive

Roosevelt and Domestic Policy “Square Deal” for all Americans – reform America for the common man Trustbuster – break up trusts and monopolies to allow for fair business practices Meat Inspection Act/Pure Food and Drug Act

Roosevelt and Conservation Massive growth in country – Roosevelt notices the need for preserving natural environment Preservation vs. Conservation argument – Muir vs. Pinchot Conserve natural places – some places preserved, others used wisely Yellowstone, Yosemite, etc.

Roosevelt and Conservation

Roosevelt and Panama Canal Greatly reduce travel time for commercial and military vessels U. S. supports rebellion in Panama, Panama leases land to U. S. to build Panama Canal Unbelievable engineering feat still today, let alone 1908

Roosevelt and Panama Canal

Roosevelt and Foreign Policy “Big Stick Diplomacy” – international police power, if needed Roosevelt Corollary – U. S. would use force to protect economic interests

Roosevelt and Africa After leaving office in 1908, Roosevelt goes to Africa on several safari’s. Collects data, photos, harvests animals – fascinated by wild animals

Roosevelt and a “Bull Moose” Roosevelt attempts a comeback in 1912 in politics Attempts to create his own party – “Bull Moose Party” – on a progressive platform Loses election; time has passed him by, so to speak