Theodore Roosevelt (1) (1858–1919)

A disappointing offering from the larger-than-life Teddy Roosevelt who is normally an excellent writer.

In this book, Roosevelt writes the history indicated in his wordy title (hard even to fit on a decent cover), but writes it as a recorder of operational reports and captains journals. Most of the book is detailed and plodding recounts of the numbers of sailors, tonnage of ships and guns arrayed on each side of a particular naval engagement, then a minute-by-minute recounting of the engagement. It makes for very plodding reading. Had I wanted to read this detail, I’d have been a naval historian and read the ops reports myself.

The typical Teddy Roosevelt does shine through on occasion. Speaking of one fort on the edge of Lake Ontario, Roosevelt recounts, “General Drummond, in his official letter, reports that ‘the fort being everywhere almost open, the whole of the garrison effected their escape, except about 60 men, half of them wounded.’ No doubt the fort’s being ‘everywhere almost open’ afforded excellent opportunities for retreat; but it was not much of a recommendation of it as a structure intended for defence.” But those occasions are far too infrequent to rescue the work.

In the last chapter, apparently relieved of a self-imposed target of gruesome detail about naval engagements, Roosevelt tells the story of The Battle of New Orleans. Here he is more the witty and creative Roosevelt of his other works. An long introductory paragraph is brutal—but at the same time almost humorous—in his criticism of the “House of Virginia” (Jefferson, Madison, Monroe), their conception and management of the nation’s army. He ends the paragraph this way: “Until near the end, the generals were as bad as the armies they commanded, and the administration of the War Department continued to be a triumph of imbecility to the very last.”

Perhaps it was at this point Roosevelt created his famous quote, “It is not the critic who counts…”

But the last chapter was far too little and too late to save the book. It was a tedious read.… (mere)

Reason read: American Author Challenge, July, books written by presidents
I chose this one because I have read so many books about Teddy Roosevelt. (6) that it just seemed appropriate to read this book that he wrote. Written in 1899 by Theodore Roosevelt about his experience with the 1st United States Volunteer Cavalry. And I do not know much about the Spanish American War.

Theodore Roosevelt held several different political types of posts. He was president from 1901 to 1909 and was the youngest present at 42, turning 43 when McKinley was assassinated. Theodore also received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1906 which I think is kind of an oxymoron as Teddy liked war and was more for war that for peace but he did negotiate peace between Russia and Japan and he resolved a dispute with Mexico with arbitration.

The most interesting part of The Rough Riders is how they were made up. This was voluntary and not a part of the military. The original plan for this unit called for filling it with men from the Indian Territory, New Mexico, Arizona, and Oklahoma. It quickly became the place for a mix of troops ranging from Ivy League athletes to glee-club singers to Texas Rangers and Indians. There were former confederate soldiers and black soldiers and even a Spaniard who wanted to prove his loyalty to the US. While some of the words used int he book might not be politically correct to people today it is clear that everyone was considered on the merit of whether he could be calvary soldier.

The war: The Cubans were fighting for independence from Spain and US had moved some of the Navy to Havana Harbor to protect its interest. The Maine blew up in the harbor. What was called yellow journalism played a big part in the US getting involved. The papers reported that the Maine had been blown up by Spain when that probably wasn't the reason. There is a strong possibility that the ship combusted from the gasses that were put out from burning bituminous coal. The truth will never be known for sure. (see Paul Atwood, Professor and Senator Lodge comments) Another tactic of the paper was to report the atrocities of concentration camps. The reason for reporting was not to escalate war but to sell papers (Hearst and Pulitzer). (see Robert Osgood, 1953) The president did not want to go to war but Roosevelt favored war because
our direct interest was Cuban Tobacco and sugar and relations to the projected Panama Canal.
1. Humanitarian reason (there are people who believed that it was the humane thing to do.
2. Standpoint of National Honor
3. Standpoint of National Interest.
The US is a warring nation and these reasons are generally the reasons, heavy on the National interest. There's always some $ that is the motivator. Even in today's current Russian/Ukraine war.
With Spain losing the war and the US obtained Puerto Rico, Guam and Philippines.… (mere)

"African Game Trails" is a two-volume memoir written by Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, documenting his adventures and experiences during a hunting expedition in East Africa from 1909 to 1910. The books provide a vivid account of Roosevelt's exploration of the African wilderness, his encounters with local tribes, and his pursuit of big game.

Volume I of "African Game Trails" chronicles Roosevelt's journey from New York to Africa and his arrival in Mombasa, Kenya. From there, he embarks on an epic safari through the plains and forests of East Africa, accompanied by a team of skilled guides and porters. The narrative takes readers along as Roosevelt tracks and hunts various species, including lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and many others. His descriptions of the African landscape, wildlife, and the thrill of the chase captivate readers and convey his passion for hunting and conservation.

In Volume II, Roosevelt continues his safari adventures, delving deeper into the African wilderness. He recounts encounters with dangerous animals, dramatic hunts, and the challenges faced by the hunting party. Throughout his journey, Roosevelt also devotes attention to the local people and their cultures, providing insights into the customs, traditions, and daily lives of the African tribes he encounters. He reflects on the significance of the African continent, its rich biodiversity, and the urgent need for wildlife conservation.

Both volumes of "African Game Trails" offer a compelling blend of adventure, natural history, and cultural exploration. Roosevelt's writing style is energetic and vivid, capturing the excitement of the hunt while conveying his deep respect for the African wildlife and his commitment to preserving its future.

These memoirs not only showcase Roosevelt's adventurous spirit but also shed light on his broader interests in nature, conservation, and the exploration of the world. "African Game Trails" stands as a testament to Roosevelt's passion for the outdoors, his love for Africa, and his lasting contributions to conservation efforts.… (mere)