Book Review: Teddy Roosevelt made U.S. a superpower
In the heart of Medora, North Dakota, the construction of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is underway, promising to encapsulate the spirit of the 26th president of the United States. This summer, visitors to the Badlands can feel the essence of Roosevelt, a man whose life and legacy are vividly brought to life in Bret Baier’s compelling new book, “To Rescue the American Spirit: Teddy Roosevelt and the Birth of a Superpower.” Baier’s narrative is a meticulously researched and engaging portrayal of Roosevelt, transforming him from a historical figure into a vibrant personality whose influence resonates in contemporary America.
Baier’s book is an enthralling journey through the life of Theodore Roosevelt, chronicling his transformation from a frail child to a symbol of resilience and American exceptionalism. The author uncovers lesser-known aspects of Roosevelt’s life, illuminating how personal tragedies and a quest for purpose in the American wilderness shaped his character. From his early days battling illness to his relentless pursuit of political reform in New York, Baier paints a picture of a man driven by a profound sense of duty and an unwavering commitment to justice. Roosevelt’s tenure as a state legislator and later as governor was marked by his fight against corruption, earning him both allies and powerful adversaries—a testament to his indomitable spirit.
The book also delves into the pivotal moments that defined Roosevelt’s presidency, particularly his ascension to the Oval Office following the assassination of William McKinley. Baier captures the essence of Roosevelt’s leadership style, characterized by his passion for conservation, his adventurous spirit, and his deep-seated patriotism. The narrative is rich with detail, showcasing Roosevelt’s love for the natural world and his lifelong fascination with wildlife. Baier’s engaging prose makes it difficult to put the book down, inviting readers to rediscover a leader whose legacy continues to shape America today. Through Baier’s lens, Roosevelt emerges not just as a historical figure but as a dynamic force whose life story inspires a renewed sense of American spirit and ambition.
MEDORA, North Dakota — Standing here this summer in the Badlands overlooking where the new Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is under construction, any person curious about the 26th president can be assured that this place will indeed capture the spirit and essence of the man.
I was left with the same sense after reading the new Bret Baier book, “To Rescue the American Spirit: Teddy Roosevelt and the Birth of a Superpower.” It’s a nonstop page-turner written with great research and vivid detail. Roosevelt comes bursting out of the book on every page.
Baier brings forth nuggets of Roosevelt’s life lost to history that shaped and formed a once-sickly child into a symbol of grit and American exceptionalism whose mark on our country is still evident today.
The book is nothing short of enthralling, delivered in a way that makes it difficult to set aside. Baier details Roosevelt’s life, from his triumph over a series of tragic events that rocked his world and left him looking for purpose in the wide and wild wonders of the American West to the man he became in battle, in conservation and in politics — all different aspects of his life that still affect our country today.
Baier details Roosevelt’s turn in the New York legislature as a champion of ridding the state’s politics of corruption. He follows his nightly city walks as the New York City commissioner and reveals his stubborn efforts to bring reform to government as New York governor — efforts that earned him powerful enemies. It becomes clear why he has endured in our national psyche.
As his road to the White House comes through tragedy — as vice president, the man he served under, William McKinley, was assassinated in Buffalo, New York — we see Roosevelt take all of his experiences to the Oval Office to lead in a way no other president had.
Roosevelt’s spirit prevails not just page after page but word after word as the reader rediscovers his passion for our land as a conservationist and hunter who was mesmerized by the study of insects and animals all of his life.
Roosevelt’s buoyancy, lust for life, and patriotism combine to make for a rigorous read thanks to Baier’s writing and penchant for detail.
Salena Zito is a staff reporter and columnist for the Washington Examiner.
