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Theodore Roosevelt or Teddy, was the 26th president of the United States. Roosevelt was born in 1858 in New York. He was primarily schooled at home, followed by Harvard College and Columbia Law School. Roosevelt didn’t finish law school, opting instead to become a member of the New York State Assembly. He also served as a captain in the National Guard, a police commissioner for New York City, and an assistant secretary of the U.S. Navy. He later organized a cavalry made up of volunteers; this cavalry, known as the Rough Riders, gained notoriety in the Battle of San Juan Heights after charging San Juan Hill. He is well-known for is strong masculinity, his wide range of varied interests, and for leading the Progressive Movement.

In 1898, Roosevelt became the governor of New York. In 1901, he became vice president under McKinley. McKinley was assassinated soon after his inauguration, and Roosevelt assumed the office of president, becoming the 26th president of the United States. Roosevelt is known for his anti-monopoly stance and his “square deal” reform of working conditions for Americans. He also built up the Navy during his presidency. In addition he formed a cavalry of men known as the Rough Riders. Roosevelt was awarded a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts that led to an end in the Russo-Japanese War. He is also known for his environmental efforts. He left office in 1909, but ran again in 1912; he lost the election to Woodrow Wilson. Roosevelt died in 1919.

Explore articles from the HistoryNet archives about Theodore Roosevelt

1. Arch and Teddy: First Flight By a U.S. President

The ultimate bromance budded between Archibald Hoxsey and Theodore Roosevelt in 1910 when the early aviator took TR for a short flight — the first by a U.S. president.

2. When Titans Tangled

As the debate over America-as-empire sharpened, Roosevelt came to embody the nation’s drive to project power overseas. Mark Twain became Teddy’s most acerbic adversary. The men passionately framed the question that has been at the heart of American foreign policy debate ever since.

3. How the Rough Riders Got Their Name

One of Teddy Roosevelt’s favorite reporters wrote the definitive account back in the 1920s, but his memoir of the episode was never published — until now.

Bonus: It must run in the family…

Teddy Roosevelt Jr.: The Officer Who Stormed Normandy with Nothing but a Cane and a Pistol

» See all Theodore Roosevelt Articles

Theodore Roosevelt Facts

Born

10/27/1858

Died

1/6/1919

Spouse

Alice Lee
Edith Carrow

Years Of Military Service

1898

Rank

Colonel

Battles / Wars

Spanish-American War

Accomplishments

Nobel Peace Prize
Medal of Honor
26th President of the United States