The Nexus Archive
American Progressivism
Theodore Roosevelt
The Strenuous American · Progressive Era, 1858-1919
Roosevelt turns public life into a test of vigor, duty, reform, courage, and national energy.
- Strenuous life
- Reform
- Conservation
- National vigor
- Civic duty
Life
Theodore Roosevelt was the twenty-sixth president of the United States, a reformer, soldier, writer, conservationist, and advocate of energetic citizenship. His speeches and books stress action, character, national vigor, and public duty.
The question
“What happens to a people that chooses comfort over courage?”
Argued against
Corruption, softness, cynicism, monopoly abuse, and passive citizenship.
Why Theodore Roosevelt matters
Roosevelt gives Nexus a figure of restless energy, reform, and public action. His writings are ideal for short, motivating primary texts.
Where to start
The Strenuous Life The best short entry into Roosevelt's ethic of action and duty.
Works
- The Strenuous Life Essay · Intermediate Roosevelt's collection of essays and addresses on vigor, duty, reform, citizenship, and national power.
- Theodore Roosevelt: An Autobiography Memoir · Advanced Roosevelt's own account of his life, formation, public service, and action.
- The Rough Riders Memoir · Intermediate Roosevelt's account of the volunteer cavalry regiment he helped raise and led in the Spanish-American War.