Happy Birthday Teddy!
Today, October 27th, is the birthday of President Theodore (“Teddy”) Roosevelt. An avid explorer, hunter, and firearms enthusiast, Teddy Roosevelt (TR) was a larger-than-life figure who lead this nation as it emerged as a world power.
Theodore Roosevelt — A Great Leader
If you want to learn more about TR, we strongly recommend Theodore Roosevelt on Leadership, a book by noted author and political analyst James Strock. This work captures the vision, commitment, and personal courage that marked Theodore Roosevelt’s career. Theodore Roosevelt was a leader of uncommon strength who, through the sheer force of his extraordinary will, turned America into a modern world power. Thrown headfirst into the presidency by the assassination of his predecessor, he led with courage, character, and vision in the face of overwhelming challenges, whether busting corporate trusts or building the Panama Canal. Roosevelt has been a hero to millions of Americans for over a century.
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I am a great admirer of Teddy as a man and hunter and of his “can do” attitude. All of that made him an ideal American. However, a “Can Do” attitude as it relates to the expansion of government power, is anathema to the ideals of America’s founding and the principles of limited government. Teddy did not understand the distinction, and that made him a poor president, in my opinion. (Not compared to the poor presidents we’ve had since. Obviously he shines in comparison to Wilson, FDR, Carter, and others I could name, but, in the end, I believe he was more concerned with action than principle.)
Addendum: His “Man in the arena” and his “No hyphenated Americans” speeches should be read by every American. (and taken to heart)
Along with his accomplishments, Roosevelt viewed the role of government with too much regard – as many do today: “About 1907, Roosevelt turned more to the left in domestic policy, and in his 1912 campaign he called for movement toward what would later be called a “welfare state.” His move to the left annoyed conservatives and fueled the split in the GOP that exploded in 1912, with Roosevelt on the losing side. His nationalism and his chivalry predisposed him toward an enlarged protective state, along with his admiration for what the British were doing at the time.”
I can’t say I share admiration for Teddy. He was a big-government progressive—essentially founded progressive socialism in America. He’s done more damage to our country than any president up until his election.