Theodore R. Roosevelt

Cheyenne, Wyoming, 26th President

Background

• Born October, 1858, New York City
• Second eldest of four children
• Graduate of Harvard University, magna cum laude

Other Offices Held

• Governor, New York
• Vice President, United States - He succeeded Williams McKinley as President after McKinley was shot. At age 42, he was the youngest president ever.

Accomplishments

• Considered in the forefront of thinking as an advocate for women's rights
• Awarded Nobel Peace Prize for ending Russo-Japanese War
• Established several national parks and created National Forest Service
• Signed treaty with Panama to build the Panama Canal
• Established first 18 national monuments
• Served with the First U.S. Volunteer Cavalry Regiment, the "Rough Riders", during Spanish American War

Interesting Fact

Roosevelt was shot in the chest while entering an automobile outside a hotel in Milwaukee. He delivered a 90-minute speech before seeking medical attention. The bullet was never removed.

Authorship

Roosevelt authored many books, including "Hunting Trips of a Ranchman," "The Naval War of 1812," "The Winning of the West" (four-volume history of the American frontier), "American Ideals" and "The Rough Riders."

Famous Words

"Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far."

West African proverb Roosevelt referred to often; it was also reflected in his policies.