Theodore Roosevelt

Essay by PaperNerd ContributorHigh School, 11th grade November 2001

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Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919) Roosevelt was born in 1858 in New York City to a wealthy family. During his childhood he endured a constant battle with ill health. After his successful triumph over his ailments he went on to become an advocate of the strenuous life. In 1884 his first wife, Alice Lee Roosevelt, died on the same day as his mother. In dealing with his loss, he spent the next two years on his ranch tending to his cattle, hunting big game, and chasing outlaws. While on a trip to London in 1886, he married his second wife Edith Carrow.

Roosevelt served as a lieutenant in the Spanish-American War. There he earned recognition for his leadership abilities. With his talents emerging he was accepted as the Republican candidate for Governor of New York in 1898. He won the election and was in the beginning stages of his political career.

His next political achievement was to be elected Vice-President next to William McKinley. While serving under McKinley, Roosevelt often overshadowed the president, taking a very aggressive role in the affairs of the country. After McKinley's assassination, Roosevelt began his blistering career as the 26th President of the United States.

Roosevelt is best remembered for his achievements in conservation. He was also an excellent mediator, as was demonstrated in his winning the Nobel Peace Prize for mediating the Russo-Japanese War. After his term was up he chose not to seek re-election at first, but after a hunting trip in Africa he changed his mind and formed the Progressive Party (Bull Moose) which split the Republican Party and caused the Democratic nominee Woodrow Wilson to win the election. Roosevelt continued his days writing on history, politics, travel, and nature.