Theodore Roosevelt's The Rough Riders | CBC

Summary

This video highlights Theodore Roosevelt's *The Rough Riders*, a first-edition book that captures Roosevelt's leadership in the Spanish-American War. It explores his dual nature as a privileged aristocrat and a physically courageous naturalist, rancher, and politician. Roosevelt's role in leading the Rough Riders, his courage during the charge up San Juan Hill, and his unique blend of intellect and physicality are showcased. The video also briefly touches on Roosevelt's connection with Winston Churchill, noting their similar traits and the missed opportunity for friendship. The narrative offers insights into Roosevelt's life and legacy through his compelling story and this special book.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mark Curtis introduces a rare first edition of Theodore Roosevelt's 'The Rough Riders,' a significant historical book about the Spanish-American War.
• 😀 The book is special due to its signed copy by Roosevelt and a unique inscription by one of his Rough Riders to the mother of a fellow soldier.
• 😀 Roosevelt's 'The Rough Riders' captures his leadership of the 1st Volunteer Cavalry during the Spanish-American War, notably at the Battle of San Juan Hill.
• 😀 The binding of this first edition is a beautiful example of craftsmanship, made from full brown leather by Zayn's Door for Aspray of London.
• 😀 Theodore Roosevelt was a complex figure, blending aristocratic upbringing with his adventurous, naturalist, and conservationist pursuits.
• 😀 Roosevelt's courage and intellect defined him, and his participation in the Spanish-American War served as a pivotal moment in his life, leading him to the presidency.
• 😀 Roosevelt formed a unique cavalry regiment made up of both frontiersmen and educated easterners, highlighting his ability to unite diverse groups.
• 😀 The Rough Riders' charge at San Juan Hill was a defining moment for Roosevelt, catapulting him into the political spotlight.
• 😀 A connection is made between Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, two brash and dynamic figures, despite their failure to form a close friendship.
• 😀 Roosevelt's relationships with key figures, such as his recruitment of Bull Worthington and their shared love of horses, illustrate the personal connections formed during the war.
• 😀 Both Roosevelt and Churchill had similar qualities, such as a passion for military history, physical courage, and a willingness to challenge their own political parties for social reform.

Q & A

What is the significance of Theodore Roosevelt's book *The Rough Riders*?

The book encapsulates Roosevelt's experiences as a leader during the Spanish-American War, particularly his leadership of the Rough Riders in the famous charge at San Juan Hill. It serves as a memoir of his military service and the formative experiences that contributed to his rise in American politics.

What makes the 1899 first edition of *The Rough Riders* special?

The 1899 first edition is unique because it is a signed copy by Theodore Roosevelt himself, along with an inscription by one of his Rough Riders. The book is also bound in fine brown leather by Zayn's Door for Asprey of London, adding to its collectible value.

Who was the Rough Rider who inscribed the book, and what was the nature of the inscription?

The inscription in the book was made by one of Roosevelt’s Rough Riders, specifically a man who fought alongside him in the charge at San Juan Hill. The inscription is addressed to the mother of the Rough Rider, adding a personal touch to the historical document.

Why did Theodore Roosevelt resign from his position as Under Secretary of the Navy during the Spanish-American War?

Roosevelt resigned from his position to pursue a more direct role in the Spanish-American War, seeking to form and lead a cavalry regiment of Rough Riders. His resignation and the formation of this regiment represented his desire to prove himself physically and as a leader in battle.

What was the composition of Roosevelt's Rough Riders?

The Rough Riders were made up of a diverse group of individuals, including marksmen, frontiersmen, and horsemen. Roosevelt also expanded the regiment to include Easterners, individuals like himself from privileged backgrounds, to join the more rugged recruits from the West.

What role did Henry Worthingtonville play in the Rough Riders?

Henry Worthingtonville was one of the Easterners specifically recruited by Roosevelt to join the Rough Riders. He came from a wealthy background, having graduated from Columbia University, and was part of the regiment alongside the frontiersmen and marksmen.

How did Theodore Roosevelt's experience in the Spanish-American War impact his political career?

Roosevelt's role in the Spanish-American War, particularly his leadership during the charge at San Juan Hill, elevated his public profile and led to his eventual election as the 26th President of the United States. His military exploits were crucial in his rise to the presidency.

What connection does the speaker draw between Theodore Roosevelt and Winston Churchill?

The speaker highlights the many similarities between Roosevelt and Churchill, such as their physical courage, love for military action, regard for naval power, and shared literary achievements. Despite these similarities, the two never developed a strong personal relationship, largely due to Roosevelt’s own reluctance.

What does the speaker suggest was the reason for the lack of a strong friendship between Roosevelt and Churchill?

The speaker suggests that the lack of a strong friendship between Roosevelt and Churchill may have been due to the fact that they were so similar in their dispositions and mannerisms. Roosevelt’s daughter later quipped that her father didn’t like Churchill because they were too much alike.

What event led to the meeting between Roosevelt and Churchill in 1900?

Roosevelt and Churchill first met in December 1900 when Churchill, newly elected to Parliament, was visiting the United States. At the time, Roosevelt was the sitting Governor of New York and had been elected Vice President of the U.S.