Theodore Roosevelt: Rough Rider to Rushmore

• aristocrat
• flamboyant
• progressive
• shrapnel

1. Teddy had tremendous respect and admiration for his father. How was his choice to become involved in politics tied to his relationship with his father?

2. When Teddy graduated from Harvard he returned to New York to pursue a career in government. Why was it uncommon for people of his social class to go into such a field?

3. Teddy's childhood was marred with illness. How did the problems Teddy faced with asthma effect his future?

4. Theodore Roosevelt ran on the Republican ticket for most of his political career, yet he was termed a progressive. What issues did he support that would give him that label?

5. After the death of his beloved wife and mother on the same day in the same house, Teddy went West to try his hand at ranching. What did he acquire in the West that started him on the path to the White House?

6. Teddy lead the Rough Riders to victory on San Juan Hill. How did this victory launch his ascendancy to the presidency?

7. Why did the Republican in New York want to nominate Teddy for the Vice President? How did their plan backfire?

8. Teddy believed in the vision of a Great America. Many people have credited him pushing the United States into the 20th century. What accomplishments did Teddy achieve in the White House to change the face of the country?

9. As a boy, Teddy was always fascinated by nature. How did this passion with the outdoors effect his policies as president?

10. What was the "big stick policy"? How did the president carry this out?

11. The Teddy Bear is a lasting reminder of Theodore Roosevelt. How did this stuffed animal come to be named after the president?

1. Imagine that you are a journalist for a New York newspaper. Write an editorial describing Teddy Roosevelt and his decision to become involved in city politics. Included his views on important issues and state whether or not you agree with him.

2. Teddy Roosevelt lead an adventurous life. As soon as he finished his second term as President he went for a year to Africa. Years later he went to South America to chart the source of the River of Doubt. Choose either one of these two adventures and write a journal entry describing a single day as a member of Roosevelt's party.

3. T. R. was instrumental in designating million of acres of federal land as National Parks. Compose a five minute speech that will be presented to congress to support the presidents initiated. Explain why National Parks are so important to our country.

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