The legendary personality of Theodore Roosevelt is timeless. He went from an insatiably curious child, to an active young man, and finally, a boisterous revolutionary as a politician. In the eyes of Theodore Roosevelt, characteristics worthy of admiration included consistent hard work, dedication to family, quiet religious adherence, and a willingness to help the fellow man.
To a man like Theodore Roosevelt, character was the very definition of a man (or woman). Overcoming his asthmatic, sickly childhood years through vigorous exercise and unyielding determination, he frequently applied this incomparable work ethic to other areas of his life. He was a voracious reader, prolific writer, and consummate academic. His dedication to ‘playing fair’ led to the reform of various corrupt government offices and organizations, as well as the ‘busting’ of the biggest corporate trusts of U.S. history. Teddy’s love for the outdoors transformed U.S. domestic policy into a forerunner of conservation and preservation efforts, leading to the signing of the Antiquities Act and the designation of countless refuges, preserves, and national monuments. And his indomitable spirit led to the implementation of his Big Stick Policy, which placed the U.S. squarely at the top of the global powers.
