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Theodore Roosevelt
Life Before
the Presidency
Roosevelt's youth was different from that of
the other log cabin Presidents that preceded
him. He was born into a wealthy family in New
York City on October 27, 1858. Despite his family's
wealth, he had his own struggles, such as his
battle with ill health. His physical triumphs
made him a fan of "the strenuous life."
Before
becoming President, Roosevelt was elected to
other offices. He served as a New York State
Assemblyman, Governor of New York, and Vice
President of the United States. He was also
a deputy sheriff in the Dakota Territory, Police
Commissioner of New York City, U.S. Civil Service
Commissioner, Assistant Secretary of the Navy,
and Colonel in the "Rough Riders."
In
April 1898, the U.S. entered into war with Spain.
At this time, Roosevelt was Assistant Secretary
of the Navy. Roosevelt favored the war and loudly
made his views known — even to President
McKinley, who wanted the U.S. to remain neutral.
In order to supplement the depleted U.S. Army,
President McKinley asked for 125,000 volunteers.
Over a million men answered the call. The zealous
Theodore Roosevelt was commissioned to lead
a unique regiment of the volunteer cavalry —
a diverse group of rugged men from the Southwest
Territories. Though officially known as the
First U.S. Volunteer Cavalry, the regiment was
more appropriately dubbed the "Rough Riders."
In
July 1898, Roosevelt gained fame for his charge
up San Juan Hill. The image of him charging
up the hill on his horse became a historical
icon. "Roosevelt all-mustached, eyeglasses,
and teeth-charging up San Juan Hill," (www.pbs.org).
After the war, he returned to the U.S. a hero,
which helped him win the election as Governor
of New York.
Roosevelt
was also one of the original members of the
American Institute of Arts and Letters. He was
one of the first fifteen elected to the American
Academy of Arts and Letter. He also founded
the National Collegiate Athletic Association
(NCAA), which you may be familiar with today.
Learn
more about Theodore Roosevelt:
Life
Before the Presidency
Roosevelt: Rancher, Historian,
and Author
Presidential Accomplishments
Did You Know?
The Father of Conservation
Life After the Presidency
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