Book Review: Teddy Roosevelt made U.S. a superpower
In the picturesque Badlands of Medora, North Dakota, the construction of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is underway, promising to encapsulate the essence of the 26th president. This summer, visitors to the site are not only witnessing the physical embodiment of Roosevelt’s legacy but are also invited to delve deeper into his life through Bret Baier’s captivating new book, “To Rescue the American Spirit: Teddy Roosevelt and the Birth of a Superpower.” Baier’s work is a meticulously researched narrative that brings Roosevelt’s multifaceted character to life, showcasing his evolution from a frail child into a robust symbol of American grit and exceptionalism.
Baier’s narrative is rich with lesser-known anecdotes that highlight Roosevelt’s resilience in the face of personal tragedy and his relentless pursuit of purpose in the untamed American West. The book chronicles Roosevelt’s transformative journey, detailing his staunch efforts to combat corruption in New York politics, his vigorous reform initiatives as governor, and his unexpected ascent to the presidency following the assassination of William McKinley. Through Baier’s vivid storytelling, readers are drawn into Roosevelt’s world, where his passion for conservation, love for the outdoors, and fascination with nature shaped his policies and ideals. The narrative emphasizes how these experiences not only defined Roosevelt as a leader but also left an indelible mark on the American landscape, influencing contemporary conservation efforts and national identity.
Ultimately, Baier’s portrayal of Roosevelt is one of buoyancy and patriotism, capturing the spirit of a man whose love for life and country resonated through his actions and policies. The book is not just a historical account but an engaging exploration of a president who continues to inspire generations. For those eager to understand the complexities of Theodore Roosevelt and his lasting impact on America, Baier’s book serves as a compelling gateway, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of history, politics, and the American spirit. As the library rises in Medora, it stands as a testament to Roosevelt’s legacy, inviting all to explore the life of a president who championed the ideals of courage and conservation.
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.
