Who Is Theodore Roosevelt Selfish

To The Fullest

“See here Roosevelt I’m teaching this class”, is a notorious quote believably by one of Roosevelt’s college professors. Whether true or not it perfectly describes the character of Theodore Roosevelt. Edmund Morris decisively wrote an article claimed as, Theodore Roosevelt, President. He portrays him through several mediums and descriptions, such as his appearance, personality, character, and Presidency. Roosevelt was a man of remembrance. He channeled a crowd. He was the epitome of the American image. His character flowed through every breathed action he determined. Commanding attention he knew who he was and was what he claimed to be. Roosevelt was the 26th president of the United States and symbolized authority

and kindness as a man and as a leader. Considering Morris’ opinion of American Exceptionaism, he seems to agree, he says, “But in America a low-born man had the opportunity - the duty - to fight his way up the gutter (9).” Convincingly, one may gleam trueness in character in regards to Theodore Roosevelt.
What does it mean to be remembered? Remembered it defined as, “to retain in the memory.” Theodore Roosevelt has fulfilled this definition in so many Americans. They remember his tender hearted nature, when thinking of a teddy bear. They remember his wild west days as a cowboy. They remember his constant need to overcome. Roosevelt is perhaps the only president to be known for such a wide range of skills and characteristics. Morris quotes a journalist, “ ‘He had the double gifts of sweet nature that came out in every hand-touch and tone . . . and a sincerely powerful personality that left the un-effaceable impression that whatever he said was right (6).’ ” He possessed a aggression and pride that overcame all the obstacles he faced. As a child he was sickly and told that he would never overcome it, though he became a hunter and cowboy, his physique was always recognized. He was incredibly knowledgable in sciences and military strategies. When his mother and wife died, he left his blossoming political career and went west. The west one of the most brutal environments at the time. “His belief in the superiority of Strength over Weakness, Right over Wrong, Realism over Romance (8)” was evident. He eventually came back and became one of the most iconic presidents of all time. Clearly, Theodore Roosevelt was determined. These things have been forever cherished and remembered by Americans everywhere.
Roosevelt channeled a crowd as a leader.

People wanted to follow him. He knew what he wanted and they respected that. As he swore into office his presence was known. He lifted his hand above his head (13), as if reaching to the sky. He stood firmly and spoke clearly, adding an extra phrase to everything he repeated, “And so I swear (13).” He often requested extra journalists to be present (13). Everyone knew him and they loved him. Roosevelt was a man of the public, siding with them against big businesses. He had a true understanding of people. The was he addressed them to his own lineage, which was from several different cultures. He was able to relate to people. Even as a cowboy he knew everyone he came into contact with and owned respect. As president he invited Booker T. Washington to dine with him at the white house, this event he published, and everyone knew (14). Roosevelt wanted an audience to prove something to them - and he did. He led the people with ease and wild

consistency.
Roosevelt was “a new, dynamic American breed (9).” With his variety of life and vibrance in new beginnings, he owned the American dream. Roosevelt’s family was from the North and South and he moved to the West, this combination, as well as his European heritage, demonstrated the melting pot he was. Creating understanding, everyone was able to identify with TR. To be American one must be patriotic, adventurous, determined, and identifiable. These traits Roosevelt portrayed. He loved America and described it as having opportunity. He traveled and defeated mountain lions with nothing but a knife. Never giving up, he didn’t quite, doing everything to the best of his ability. Theodore Roosevelt as president Morris describes was , “so good at his job that the American people loved him for loving it (15).” Not everyone is perfect, and Roosevelt wasn’t, he knew his imperfection and refused to have a third term as president, “his knowledge that power corrupts even the man who most deserves it (15).” His abilities are undeniable. “Pride and patriotism were inseparable in Theodore Roosevelt’s character; indeed ... he ‘was’ American (15).”
Theodore Roosevelt was confident in himself and always had something to say.

Remembered for being who he was Roosevelt is known across the nation. He could command an audience with a firm word and presence. He was American in it’s truest sense. People admired him for being firm but kind. Amazingly, regardless of his interests in war, he was remembered for being a peaceful president (12). Morris clearly has high respect for Roosevelt. Everyone should remember Theodore Roosevelt fervently for the things that he taught the American people. He was a role model and a leader. “As far as his sheer personality was concerned, Theodore’s superiority could be measured in spades (4).” He knew his duty well and exercised it regularly. To have a leader that one respects is a rare thing and it is beautiful when it happens. Theodore Roosevelt was loved. He was adventurous and daring, regardless of disabilities he possessed. This is something people can look back on, his ability to never let circumstances dictate how he was going to live his life - and he was going to live it to the

fullest.

Works Cited:
- http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/remembered?s=t
- Edmund Morris, “Theodore Roosevelt, President”, Copyright 1981 by Edmund Morris