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T.R.: The Last Romantic
In his time, there was no more popular national figure than Theodore Roosevelt. It was not just the energy he brought to every political office he held or his unshakable moral convictions that made him so popular, or even his status as a bonafide war hero—the man who led the Rough Riders up San Juan Hill in Cuba during the Spanish-American war. Most important, Theodore Roosevelt was loved by the people because this scion of a privileged New York family loved America and Americans.And yet, according to Bill Brands, if we look at the private Roosevelt without blinders, we see a man whose great public strengths hid enormous personal deficiencies. His highly exaggerated, and often uncompromising ways drove many of his business and personal friends crazy. His historical writings, which Brands quotes from extensively, are nothing if not a portrait of a boy's endless macho fantasies. He was often so full of himself that his speeches and writings were the frequent subject of fierce satire in their time.Even more revealing, according to Brands, was Roosevelt as son, brother, husband, and father. According to Brands, to understand both the public and private Roosevelt one must understand the impact of his father's death while he was still a child, denying him the opportunity to come to terms with his own manhood. When his first wife Alice died of complications from childbirth, leaving behind a baby daughter Alice, his response was to run away to shoot Buffalo in the west, leaving the newborn infant to the care of his unmarried sister Bamie. When his second wife Edith was seriously, perhaps fatally ill, he left her to fight in the Spanish-American war. His only concern when his brother Elliot, who had been his only friend as a child, became an alcoholic was to hide the news from the public. Determined that his four sons would not dishonor his belief that men, to achieve their manhood, must test themselves in war, he arranged for each to serve, often in the frontlines, during WWI. His youngest son Quentin would die in that cause.Beautifully written, powerfully moved by its subject, TR is nonetheless a biography more appropriate to today's critical times.
912 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1997
207 people are currently reading
3648 people want to read
About the author
H.W. Brands
97 books1,140 followersH.W. Brands is an acclaimed American historian and author of over thirty books on U.S. history, including Pulitzer Prize finalists The First American and Traitor to His Class. He holds the Jack S. Blanton Sr. Chair in History at the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned his PhD. Originally trained in mathematics, Brands turned to history as a way to pursue his passion for writing. His biographical works on figures like Franklin, Jackson, Grant, and both Roosevelts have earned critical and popular praise for their readability and depth. Raised in Oregon and educated at Stanford, Reed College, and Portland State, he began his teaching career in high schools before entering academia. He later taught at Texas A&M and Vanderbilt before returning to UT Austin. Brands challenges conventional reverence for the Founding Fathers, advocating for a more progressive and evolving view of American democracy. In addition to academic works, his commentary has featured in major documentaries. His books, published internationally and translated into multiple languages, examine U.S. political, economic, and cultural development with compelling narrative force. Beyond academia, he is a public intellectual contributing to national conversations on history and governance.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 145 reviews
April 28, 2015
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“T.R.: The Last Romantic” is H.W. Brands’s 1997 biography of Theodore Roosevelt. Brands is a professor at the University of Texas, a prolific author and a two-time Pulitzer finalist. He has written nearly thirty books on a wide range of historical topics including biographies of Andrew Jackson, Ulysses S. Grant, Aaron Burr and FDR. His most recent biography “Reagan: A Life” will be released in May.
Brands’s biography is lengthy (with just over 800 pages) but also comprehensive, well-researched and detailed. His writing style, always straightforward and exceptionally readable, lacks the descriptive touches of many authors. As a result, this book does not engage the reader with spectacular scene-setting as do some biographies, and rarely presents the world as seen through Roosevelt’s eyes.
But Brands maintains a keen, insightful and penetrating frame of reference and provides a comparatively serious and sophisticated journey through Roosevelt’s life. Brands also does an admirable job providing historical context throughout the text. His colorful description of the grubby underside to life in New York City (which Roosevelt encountered as a young, enthusiastic police commissioner) is but one early example.
For such a comprehensive and thorough biography, however, there are surprisingly few threads tying together the various phases of Roosevelt’s life. Only the notion of Roosevelt as a “romantic” pervades the biography (in a philosophical, not amorous, sense). And although Brands works diligently to link Roosevelt with that theme, it is not overwhelmingly convincing or compelling.
Curiously, Brands chooses to underemphasize Roosevelt’s efforts in the area of wilderness preservation as well as his productive literary career. If I hadn’t already read several biographies of Roosevelt I would hardly appreciate what he accomplished with his authorship of The Naval War of 1812 (started when he was just a college student). On the other hand, topics on which Brands chooses to focus are usually well-executed such as his description of Roosevelt’s involvement in the Panama Canal project.
“The Last Romantic” is frequently criticized for being unfairly critical of Roosevelt – a charge that seems heavy-handed in the book’s early chapters. Brands is certainly not as breathless in his praise of the young Roosevelt as are most biographers, but at worst his coverage seems ruthlessly objective. As the book wears on, however, Brands’s tone becomes increasingly tepid and his observations more consistently disparaging.
Once Roosevelt becomes president he seems unable to do anything to merit the author’s praise; the benefit of the doubt never accrues to this Rough Rider. And while Brands undoubtedly performs a public service in showing both sides of Roosevelt’s coin, the sense of imbalance becomes distracting. The criticism is rarely obtuse or heavy-handed, but if it is somewhat subtle it is also unrelenting.
Fortunately, the final chapter serves as a useful and perceptive review of Roosevelt’s character and legacy. But by now the biography’s momentum and enthusiasm have been dissipated. Judged as two separate books, the first half would score among the best presidential biographies I’ve read. As for the second half…
Overall, H.W. Brands’s biography of Theodore Roosevelt is informative, detailed and thought-provoking. It seems to revere his early enthusiasm for justice and reform, but challenges the conventional wisdom placing TR among the greatest of America’s presidents. Brands’s biography of Teddy Roosevelt is interesting and often meritorious, but seems to go a step too far in tearing the man off his pedestal.
Overall rating: 3¾ stars
“T.R.: The Last Romantic” is H.W. Brands’s 1997 biography of Theodore Roosevelt. Brands is a professor at the University of Texas, a prolific author and a two-time Pulitzer finalist. He has written nearly thirty books on a wide range of historical topics including biographies of Andrew Jackson, Ulysses S. Grant, Aaron Burr and FDR. His most recent biography “Reagan: A Life” will be released in May.
Brands’s biography is lengthy (with just over 800 pages) but also comprehensive, well-researched and detailed. His writing style, always straightforward and exceptionally readable, lacks the descriptive touches of many authors. As a result, this book does not engage the reader with spectacular scene-setting as do some biographies, and rarely presents the world as seen through Roosevelt’s eyes.
But Brands maintains a keen, insightful and penetrating frame of reference and provides a comparatively serious and sophisticated journey through Roosevelt’s life. Brands also does an admirable job providing historical context throughout the text. His colorful description of the grubby underside to life in New York City (which Roosevelt encountered as a young, enthusiastic police commissioner) is but one early example.
For such a comprehensive and thorough biography, however, there are surprisingly few threads tying together the various phases of Roosevelt’s life. Only the notion of Roosevelt as a “romantic” pervades the biography (in a philosophical, not amorous, sense). And although Brands works diligently to link Roosevelt with that theme, it is not overwhelmingly convincing or compelling.
Curiously, Brands chooses to underemphasize Roosevelt’s efforts in the area of wilderness preservation as well as his productive literary career. If I hadn’t already read several biographies of Roosevelt I would hardly appreciate what he accomplished with his authorship of The Naval War of 1812 (started when he was just a college student). On the other hand, topics on which Brands chooses to focus are usually well-executed such as his description of Roosevelt’s involvement in the Panama Canal project.
“The Last Romantic” is frequently criticized for being unfairly critical of Roosevelt – a charge that seems heavy-handed in the book’s early chapters. Brands is certainly not as breathless in his praise of the young Roosevelt as are most biographers, but at worst his coverage seems ruthlessly objective. As the book wears on, however, Brands’s tone becomes increasingly tepid and his observations more consistently disparaging.
Once Roosevelt becomes president he seems unable to do anything to merit the author’s praise; the benefit of the doubt never accrues to this Rough Rider. And while Brands undoubtedly performs a public service in showing both sides of Roosevelt’s coin, the sense of imbalance becomes distracting. The criticism is rarely obtuse or heavy-handed, but if it is somewhat subtle it is also unrelenting.
Fortunately, the final chapter serves as a useful and perceptive review of Roosevelt’s character and legacy. But by now the biography’s momentum and enthusiasm have been dissipated. Judged as two separate books, the first half would score among the best presidential biographies I’ve read. As for the second half…
Overall, H.W. Brands’s biography of Theodore Roosevelt is informative, detailed and thought-provoking. It seems to revere his early enthusiasm for justice and reform, but challenges the conventional wisdom placing TR among the greatest of America’s presidents. Brands’s biography of Teddy Roosevelt is interesting and often meritorious, but seems to go a step too far in tearing the man off his pedestal.
Overall rating: 3¾ stars
October 8, 2021
Another book that I loved that no one who follows me will ever read. An 800 page behemoth that took a real commitment to get through. Fortunately it was well written so was like reading a novel instead of a textbook ( talking bout you “Edison “).
This isn’t a cursory history; 400 pages till he becomes president. But TR was really one of the greats. On Mount Rushmore with Washington, Jefferson and Lincoln, clearly the common view is that he was one of the great presidents.
The youngest president before Kennedy and one of the very very few to go against the party bosses; he could do so because of his immense popular support by the common man (before women could vote).
I always thought he prevented Taft from winning the 1912 election and giving it to Wilson, but the bosses and Taft stole the nomination from him at the republican convention when most observers thought Taft would lose to Wilson; so if Roosevelt did nothing, Wilson would have beaten Taft anyway. Roosevelt would have defeated Wilson if they had nominated him, so actually Taft prevented Roosevelt from winning by running and gave it to Wilson and we all know what that caused. (Actually we don’t).
Anyway, a long book that never got tedious and for history lovers; a must read.
This isn’t a cursory history; 400 pages till he becomes president. But TR was really one of the greats. On Mount Rushmore with Washington, Jefferson and Lincoln, clearly the common view is that he was one of the great presidents.
The youngest president before Kennedy and one of the very very few to go against the party bosses; he could do so because of his immense popular support by the common man (before women could vote).
I always thought he prevented Taft from winning the 1912 election and giving it to Wilson, but the bosses and Taft stole the nomination from him at the republican convention when most observers thought Taft would lose to Wilson; so if Roosevelt did nothing, Wilson would have beaten Taft anyway. Roosevelt would have defeated Wilson if they had nominated him, so actually Taft prevented Roosevelt from winning by running and gave it to Wilson and we all know what that caused. (Actually we don’t).
Anyway, a long book that never got tedious and for history lovers; a must read.
July 19, 2022
Excellent biography of one of the archetypal faces of America.
Per the title, Brands goes as much into TR's romantic ideas of himself (and America's changing ideas of itself) as the literal events of his presidency - which it explores with excellent personal context. The significance of TR's early actions in NYC politics, his participation in San Juan Hill and the Spanish-American War in Cuba, his support for and later feud with Taft (and reasons therefore), and his reaction to Wilson and the Great War are all covered, along with several other topics.
Takes a generally positive, though not uncritical, perspective on TR, keeping in mind his views and assumptions in its evaluation of his actions as president and otherwise. Will recommend to friends and students.
Per the title, Brands goes as much into TR's romantic ideas of himself (and America's changing ideas of itself) as the literal events of his presidency - which it explores with excellent personal context. The significance of TR's early actions in NYC politics, his participation in San Juan Hill and the Spanish-American War in Cuba, his support for and later feud with Taft (and reasons therefore), and his reaction to Wilson and the Great War are all covered, along with several other topics.
Takes a generally positive, though not uncritical, perspective on TR, keeping in mind his views and assumptions in its evaluation of his actions as president and otherwise. Will recommend to friends and students.
February 25, 2009
Great book!! H.W. Brands really has a way of putting together a biography without it bogging one down in facts. I gained an increased understanding about Theodore Roosevelt I hadn't remembered after all the history classes I sat through in school. This was NOT a book that sang nothing but praises and left out the bad stuff. I felt that Mr. Brands was extremely honest and objective in his writing, allowing the reader to see the faults as well as the successes of this president. The next book from Mr. Brands I intend to read is on the other Roosevelt that came out in the fall of 2008.
July 21, 2008
Wow, it's pretty clear that Brands hates Roosevelt ... anything good that Roosevelt did is clearly an accident, and not because of anything Roosevelt believed in, or any skill that Roosevelt had. It definitely reads like a post-Watergate revisionist work, where no politician can have any good in him or her, that everything is done because of an ulterior motive, and that all politicians are hugely flawed, and one must emphasize their flaws and dismiss their strengths. That's Brands' interpretation, but I've read enough different sources about TR to believe differently. Yes, he had flaws ... who doesn't? But he did an amazing amount of work, and he really was an excellent president, and an impressive guy. I feel bad for anyone wanting a one-volume work on Roosevelt, and picking up this piece of hatred. Go get Edmund Morris's work on TR, it's far better. But then again, probably any book on Roosevelt is.
May 22, 2025
A great biography from start to finish (my second favorite after McCullough's John Adams).
April 22, 2020
A sprawling and thought-provoking portrait of a President I thought I knew a lot about, but really didn't. If I'm being perfectly honest, regardless of whether or not this was Brands' intent - my perception of TR was pretty tarnished by this book. He had a massive chip on his shoulder, an inferiority complex rivaling Tr*mps and possessed one of my least favorite politician qualities of all time; being extremely hawkish. To be fair, most past Presidents were all of the above. Regardless, the book was great and I’d for sure read a Presidential Bio again.
April 9, 2020
You can blame Grover Cleveland for me reviewing The Last Romantic by H.W. Brands. Originally I was going to read the trilogy of biographies by Edmond Morris on Mr. Roosevelt, but even after getting recharged by William McKinley, the Cleveland biography hangover was too much to gear myself up for all of that. I’d previously read Brand’s biography on Andrew Jackson, and see he’s also done books on FDR, Benjamin Franklin and Ronald Reagan. I was excited to get into the larger than life figure of Teddy Roosevelt, and have come away not disappointed in the book but slightly disappointed by the man, for reasons I’ll get into below.
The president possessed powers unrivaled in American politics- or at least he did if the officeholder seized the opportunities the office held out to him. Roosevelt seized them more decisively than any president since Lincoln and any peace time president since Jackson. Indeed, he developed what he called the “Lincoln-Jackson” philosophy… the burden was on the framers or their heirs to stop him.”
There was a lot I liked about Roosevelt’s willingness to do whatever he pleased and the charisma that caused so many people to follow him. However, the same qualities often manifested as arrogance and entitlement, and at worst hypocrisy. Reading about him back to back with McKinley, I can’t help but think McKinley was the greater leader but with a much more modest personality. Anyways, here’s where he scores on my presidential rubric.
Born into – Teddy’s Grandpa was real estate millionaire. He left enough money for his kids and grandkids that Teddy didn’t need to worry about money until he was in 20’s, and much less than other people even then (such as allowing him to drop $14,000 on a cattle investment with no experience or connections prior to that). His father didn’t fight in the Civil War, instead hiring somebody to fight for him instead (which was allowed). Brands believes Roosevelt’s opinions towards war were a direct compensation to that. Roosevelt was also born asthmatic, causing his parents to stress physical development to combat that. He was home schooled, traveled to Europe for two extended trips, with an education focused on history, geography and some languages, not as much on math or Greek/Latin. 1
out of 5
Pre-President – After young adulthood, he went to Harvard, where he was a middle of the road student. His dad died while he was in college, leading to Roosevelt viewing him as idealized figure who he would always try to measure himself against. After college, went to Columbia to study but did not become a lawyer at that time. His first political jaunt was when he was elected to New York House of Representatives basically based on name recognition and being a Columbia student (having connections). During this time, he made some notoriety for himself in standing up against the Tammany Hall system. He was reelected even when Democrat Grover Cleveland led a landslide party victory that swept out most Republicans two years later.
He took some time off as politician to focus on being rancher in Dakotas afterward, also writing a few books, one on the War of 1812 and another on outdoor life. He was aided in getting them published by *cough* buying the publisher. When ranching didn’t work out due to famines and possibly his inexperience, he was appointed to a Federal position reviewing individuals appointed positions through patronage to determine if they should retain positions or not. He had no real power, and could only make suggestions to the president who didn’t need to follow them. (During this time, he also helped bail out his brother when his brother knocked up one of his house staff and she asked for $10,000 to keep it quiet.)
I was disappointed that his famous stint as police commissioner was an appointment mainly based on his name. He asserted himself in the four person committee and became the face of the police leadership for the media, trying to stamp out corruption (which there was plenty) with successed and failures. Like most people, he lost a lot of money in the depression of the 1890’s. He continued to write histories of the frontier to supplement his income, and a biography on Thomas Hart Benton that I’ve picked up but haven’t read yet. He was next appointed to be a secretary in the Navy Department by McKinley, once again due primarily from his name and connections in Republican party. Made himself noticed by preparing navy for war without orders from his superiors.
When the Spanish-American war broke out, he left his position and volunteered to fight. Although he was offered command of his own regiment (despite no prior military experience), he realized his only change at combat was to take an officer role under an experienced officer. The resulting group was the Rough Riders, who went to Cuba and even fought in a battle. Roosevelt believed he should receive a promotion and the Medal of Freedom for his conduct in battle. It’s possible he even shot a guy, but it was during a confusing moment of the battle and couldn’t be verified.
After his notoriety from Rough Riders (including writing stories about it for $1,000), Republicans in New York pushed him to running for Governor which he won by a very narrow margin. His time as governor was brief, as he clashed with incumbent Senator Platt and the Republican Machine decided he would do less damage in the powerless position of Vice President. McKinley was in favor of this as Roosevelt’s name recognition would assist on the ticket and Roosevelt could do more of the verbal sparring to complete with Willian Jennings Bryant that McKinley preferred to avoid. McKinley’s assassination brought Roosevelt to the White House just months later. 3 out of 5. (I give him credit for his writing, frontier time, and enthusiasm, but I can’t help but feel if he wasn’t rich and connected he didn’t particularly earn anything aside from his time as a Navy Secretary.)
Presidential Career – Roosevelt began at first trying to continue with all of McKinley’s positions, seeing as the voters had elected McKinley and not him. Early on, he had Booker T. Washington to the White House for a dinner invite and to discuss race relations in the South. There was a large backlash from southerners, and he subsequently stepped away from the issue for most of his presidency. Among others appointed to the Supreme Court during his tenure was the famous jurist, Oliver Wendell Holmes. Roosevelt inherited the mess in the Philippines from the Spanish American War, which for a time included an American position of killing everybody they met over the age of 10 years of age. Though not responsible for originating the position, there’s some evidence he was aware of it and did not stop it right away.
One of first goals was taking on a railroad trust for anti-trust violations. Along with a coal strike dispute, Roosevelt typically sided with the laborers but in his position was best suited to arbitrate the issues. During such he was able to get some concessions more than had previously been done from the corporations but less than the labor unions or Roosevelt thought fair. Besides his battle in Cuba, Roosevelt had a few other brushed with death throughout his life, next up being a trolley car crashing into his carriage, killing a secret service man and banging up Roosevelt, requiring him to have surgery to bone on an infected leg.
The crowning achievement of his presidential tenure (in his eyes) was the planning and beginning of the Panama. Roosevelt compared himself to Lincoln dealing with the Civil War to his own dealing with it. For his first time running as President, he was reelected in a two million vote landslide for era. In his second term, he spent a great deal of effort negotiating a truce between Japan and Russia in their conflict, however the result was Japan basically just conceded everything to get it over with when Russian Tzar Nicholas was more worried about revolting peasants in his own country than international conflicts.
His own economic policy was the “Square Deal,” which he tried to balance the needs of corporations and Labor Unions. (Yeah, the author didn’t go into it a ton besides Roosevelt’s inaugural address.) Also did the Roosevelt Corollary, an extension of the Monroe Doctrine equating to America could play sheriff to incidents in its own hemisphere that didn’t directly involve the U.S. He was the first president to leave American soil which he visited Panama Canal to see how construction was going. The funniest thing he did as president was when he tried to change the spelling of 300 words to their more common (simpler) spellings, even his biggest supporters couldn’t go along with him. Perhaps his real achievement was more than tripling the amount of National Parks/Forests in existence before he took office. At the end of his term, he said he wouldn’t run again and spent a lot of effort promoting Taft for the office. 4 out of 5.
Vice President – “The convention taped Charles Fairbanks, a senator from Indiana who before McKinley’s death had evinced presidential aspirations for 1904.” That’s all this book shared on Mr. Fairbanks, aside from the fact that Roosevelt would have preferred to have a guy named Robert Hitt. 1 out of 5.
First Lady – Teddy’s first wife Alice died days after childbirth to their first child on the same day as Teddy’s mother. Roosevelt was totally in love with her, and from the photos she was pretty attractive although perhaps immature. Crushed by the loss, Roosevelt basically abandoned the surviving daughter to his sister after she was born.
His second wife, Edith Carrow, was a girl that was a friend of Teddy’s younger sister. He knew her before he knew Alice, which Brands frequently pointed out that Teddy chose Alice over her and would always remember Alice as young and beautiful compared to her. They kept their courtship secret. Edith seemed to support Roosevelt for all of his crazy stuff after he ran for governor but this book didn’t detail any real effect she had while in the White House. 2 out of 5.
Post Presidency – After leaving office, Roosevelt took a safari to Africa for one year. He brought a son along and claimed it was all in the name of science, but the hundreds of dead animals (even tiger kittens) point to it being a hunting trip. Not long after returning, Roosevelt had a falling out with Taft and the two ended up feuding for the end of his term. When Taft was up for reelection, Roosevelt tried for the Republican nomination, felt screwed out of it by the political machine and ended up accepting the nomination of third party (Bull Moose as we know today). He beat Taft by a million votes, together they would have beaten Wilson but he won by two million votes overall.
After loss, he went to the Amazon river to explore and map out new areas. He got sick on the trip, possibly getting parasites that later led to his death. This was a more scientific trip, successfully mapping more of the river which is now partially named for him. He spent much of next eight years criticizing Wilson for not being more willing to go to war with Germany and (eventually) demanding an unconditional surrender. All four of his sons enlisted in World War I, the youngest Quentin was shot down and killed devastating Teddy and Edith. Roosevelt tried to start another voluntary force to go fight but Wilson figured he’d use it to hog glory and didn’t allow it. Roosevelt got sick shortly after war and died in bed peacefully. 2.5 out of 5.
Book itself - I came away from this book with a good understanding of its subject. Even at over 800 pages, there was plenty here that could have been expanded on. Roosevelt’s time as police commissioner, the assassination attempt on his life, and even his Amazon expedition could have all been expanded to book length stories. As a one volume summary of a man though, this covers about everything you could want to know. I was able to read 25 pages a day for over a month and never dread picking it up. That’s a 5 out of 5 for me.
The president possessed powers unrivaled in American politics- or at least he did if the officeholder seized the opportunities the office held out to him. Roosevelt seized them more decisively than any president since Lincoln and any peace time president since Jackson. Indeed, he developed what he called the “Lincoln-Jackson” philosophy… the burden was on the framers or their heirs to stop him.”
There was a lot I liked about Roosevelt’s willingness to do whatever he pleased and the charisma that caused so many people to follow him. However, the same qualities often manifested as arrogance and entitlement, and at worst hypocrisy. Reading about him back to back with McKinley, I can’t help but think McKinley was the greater leader but with a much more modest personality. Anyways, here’s where he scores on my presidential rubric.
Born into – Teddy’s Grandpa was real estate millionaire. He left enough money for his kids and grandkids that Teddy didn’t need to worry about money until he was in 20’s, and much less than other people even then (such as allowing him to drop $14,000 on a cattle investment with no experience or connections prior to that). His father didn’t fight in the Civil War, instead hiring somebody to fight for him instead (which was allowed). Brands believes Roosevelt’s opinions towards war were a direct compensation to that. Roosevelt was also born asthmatic, causing his parents to stress physical development to combat that. He was home schooled, traveled to Europe for two extended trips, with an education focused on history, geography and some languages, not as much on math or Greek/Latin. 1
out of 5
Pre-President – After young adulthood, he went to Harvard, where he was a middle of the road student. His dad died while he was in college, leading to Roosevelt viewing him as idealized figure who he would always try to measure himself against. After college, went to Columbia to study but did not become a lawyer at that time. His first political jaunt was when he was elected to New York House of Representatives basically based on name recognition and being a Columbia student (having connections). During this time, he made some notoriety for himself in standing up against the Tammany Hall system. He was reelected even when Democrat Grover Cleveland led a landslide party victory that swept out most Republicans two years later.
He took some time off as politician to focus on being rancher in Dakotas afterward, also writing a few books, one on the War of 1812 and another on outdoor life. He was aided in getting them published by *cough* buying the publisher. When ranching didn’t work out due to famines and possibly his inexperience, he was appointed to a Federal position reviewing individuals appointed positions through patronage to determine if they should retain positions or not. He had no real power, and could only make suggestions to the president who didn’t need to follow them. (During this time, he also helped bail out his brother when his brother knocked up one of his house staff and she asked for $10,000 to keep it quiet.)
I was disappointed that his famous stint as police commissioner was an appointment mainly based on his name. He asserted himself in the four person committee and became the face of the police leadership for the media, trying to stamp out corruption (which there was plenty) with successed and failures. Like most people, he lost a lot of money in the depression of the 1890’s. He continued to write histories of the frontier to supplement his income, and a biography on Thomas Hart Benton that I’ve picked up but haven’t read yet. He was next appointed to be a secretary in the Navy Department by McKinley, once again due primarily from his name and connections in Republican party. Made himself noticed by preparing navy for war without orders from his superiors.
When the Spanish-American war broke out, he left his position and volunteered to fight. Although he was offered command of his own regiment (despite no prior military experience), he realized his only change at combat was to take an officer role under an experienced officer. The resulting group was the Rough Riders, who went to Cuba and even fought in a battle. Roosevelt believed he should receive a promotion and the Medal of Freedom for his conduct in battle. It’s possible he even shot a guy, but it was during a confusing moment of the battle and couldn’t be verified.
After his notoriety from Rough Riders (including writing stories about it for $1,000), Republicans in New York pushed him to running for Governor which he won by a very narrow margin. His time as governor was brief, as he clashed with incumbent Senator Platt and the Republican Machine decided he would do less damage in the powerless position of Vice President. McKinley was in favor of this as Roosevelt’s name recognition would assist on the ticket and Roosevelt could do more of the verbal sparring to complete with Willian Jennings Bryant that McKinley preferred to avoid. McKinley’s assassination brought Roosevelt to the White House just months later. 3 out of 5. (I give him credit for his writing, frontier time, and enthusiasm, but I can’t help but feel if he wasn’t rich and connected he didn’t particularly earn anything aside from his time as a Navy Secretary.)
Presidential Career – Roosevelt began at first trying to continue with all of McKinley’s positions, seeing as the voters had elected McKinley and not him. Early on, he had Booker T. Washington to the White House for a dinner invite and to discuss race relations in the South. There was a large backlash from southerners, and he subsequently stepped away from the issue for most of his presidency. Among others appointed to the Supreme Court during his tenure was the famous jurist, Oliver Wendell Holmes. Roosevelt inherited the mess in the Philippines from the Spanish American War, which for a time included an American position of killing everybody they met over the age of 10 years of age. Though not responsible for originating the position, there’s some evidence he was aware of it and did not stop it right away.
One of first goals was taking on a railroad trust for anti-trust violations. Along with a coal strike dispute, Roosevelt typically sided with the laborers but in his position was best suited to arbitrate the issues. During such he was able to get some concessions more than had previously been done from the corporations but less than the labor unions or Roosevelt thought fair. Besides his battle in Cuba, Roosevelt had a few other brushed with death throughout his life, next up being a trolley car crashing into his carriage, killing a secret service man and banging up Roosevelt, requiring him to have surgery to bone on an infected leg.
The crowning achievement of his presidential tenure (in his eyes) was the planning and beginning of the Panama. Roosevelt compared himself to Lincoln dealing with the Civil War to his own dealing with it. For his first time running as President, he was reelected in a two million vote landslide for era. In his second term, he spent a great deal of effort negotiating a truce between Japan and Russia in their conflict, however the result was Japan basically just conceded everything to get it over with when Russian Tzar Nicholas was more worried about revolting peasants in his own country than international conflicts.
His own economic policy was the “Square Deal,” which he tried to balance the needs of corporations and Labor Unions. (Yeah, the author didn’t go into it a ton besides Roosevelt’s inaugural address.) Also did the Roosevelt Corollary, an extension of the Monroe Doctrine equating to America could play sheriff to incidents in its own hemisphere that didn’t directly involve the U.S. He was the first president to leave American soil which he visited Panama Canal to see how construction was going. The funniest thing he did as president was when he tried to change the spelling of 300 words to their more common (simpler) spellings, even his biggest supporters couldn’t go along with him. Perhaps his real achievement was more than tripling the amount of National Parks/Forests in existence before he took office. At the end of his term, he said he wouldn’t run again and spent a lot of effort promoting Taft for the office. 4 out of 5.
Vice President – “The convention taped Charles Fairbanks, a senator from Indiana who before McKinley’s death had evinced presidential aspirations for 1904.” That’s all this book shared on Mr. Fairbanks, aside from the fact that Roosevelt would have preferred to have a guy named Robert Hitt. 1 out of 5.
First Lady – Teddy’s first wife Alice died days after childbirth to their first child on the same day as Teddy’s mother. Roosevelt was totally in love with her, and from the photos she was pretty attractive although perhaps immature. Crushed by the loss, Roosevelt basically abandoned the surviving daughter to his sister after she was born.
His second wife, Edith Carrow, was a girl that was a friend of Teddy’s younger sister. He knew her before he knew Alice, which Brands frequently pointed out that Teddy chose Alice over her and would always remember Alice as young and beautiful compared to her. They kept their courtship secret. Edith seemed to support Roosevelt for all of his crazy stuff after he ran for governor but this book didn’t detail any real effect she had while in the White House. 2 out of 5.
Post Presidency – After leaving office, Roosevelt took a safari to Africa for one year. He brought a son along and claimed it was all in the name of science, but the hundreds of dead animals (even tiger kittens) point to it being a hunting trip. Not long after returning, Roosevelt had a falling out with Taft and the two ended up feuding for the end of his term. When Taft was up for reelection, Roosevelt tried for the Republican nomination, felt screwed out of it by the political machine and ended up accepting the nomination of third party (Bull Moose as we know today). He beat Taft by a million votes, together they would have beaten Wilson but he won by two million votes overall.
After loss, he went to the Amazon river to explore and map out new areas. He got sick on the trip, possibly getting parasites that later led to his death. This was a more scientific trip, successfully mapping more of the river which is now partially named for him. He spent much of next eight years criticizing Wilson for not being more willing to go to war with Germany and (eventually) demanding an unconditional surrender. All four of his sons enlisted in World War I, the youngest Quentin was shot down and killed devastating Teddy and Edith. Roosevelt tried to start another voluntary force to go fight but Wilson figured he’d use it to hog glory and didn’t allow it. Roosevelt got sick shortly after war and died in bed peacefully. 2.5 out of 5.
Book itself - I came away from this book with a good understanding of its subject. Even at over 800 pages, there was plenty here that could have been expanded on. Roosevelt’s time as police commissioner, the assassination attempt on his life, and even his Amazon expedition could have all been expanded to book length stories. As a one volume summary of a man though, this covers about everything you could want to know. I was able to read 25 pages a day for over a month and never dread picking it up. That’s a 5 out of 5 for me.
August 23, 2021
A rather laborious but good read nonetheless. Well researched but the prose was methodically chronological and not narrative. I guess I like narrative history where the author takes more liberty to connect the chapters and keep the pages turning. There wasn't much transition in my view. Also, again similar to David Nasaw's Andrew Carnegie, very little devoted to the legacy of TR. Would've been great to get testimonials from those that knew him and outlived his life and those in the 20th century that were influenced by him. At any rate, what a fascinating character as I learned a great deal and admire his courage, passion, compassion, intellect and love for our country. Also I found it very interesting how during his political years the turmoil and strife between the political parties was not too dissimilar from today. Only difference being that we have instant news now which they did not then. A number of the same issues with some variation existed then as they do today with respect to assimilation, progressivism, nationalism, and imperialism. The phrase certainly comes to mind and it is unfortunate we don't as American understand our history better, "if you don't understand the past, you are doomed to repeat it." Also, "without understanding history, it is much harder to understand the present."
I will certainly give H.W. Brands books more opportunity as I have a number of them on my shelf. Perhaps as this is one of his earlier books, I hope he has taken on that narrative approach I enjoy more when it comes to historical figures. We shall see.
I will certainly give H.W. Brands books more opportunity as I have a number of them on my shelf. Perhaps as this is one of his earlier books, I hope he has taken on that narrative approach I enjoy more when it comes to historical figures. We shall see.
April 29, 2020
Oh Teddy... From the start I was endeared to Teddy Roosevelt. His enthusiasm and positive outlook on life! I planned trips ... long ones... just so I could settle in with no distractions. He got a little crazy after his presidency realizing he could do such a better job, and wishing he was still in the "saddle." I teared when he got shot and gave his speech... bloody and all. Although I have never been a history buff... between my Reeder and my son... I am becoming one. A great read. Great writing
"Wants everything from the birth of Christ to the death of the devil"
"Of course he's insane -- he wants to marry Alice"
"Wants everything from the birth of Christ to the death of the devil"
"Of course he's insane -- he wants to marry Alice"
October 1, 2018
Brands weaves history into a complete story.
January 21, 2025
The only thing I disliked was the length. It was engaging but just so, so long.
February 12, 2022
4.5/5 A wonderful read about one of history's most interesting figures. Teddy was such a great man, he had his flaws, especially with hindsight, but for a lot of things, he felt like he was ahead of his peers
I did skim the first couple chapters about his early life. Yes its important to his development, but it doesnt really interest me
I did skim the first couple chapters about his early life. Yes its important to his development, but it doesnt really interest me
May 16, 2020
Few authors are able to bring as much of a flourish to historical writing as University of Texas professor H.W. Brands. This was the third Brands title I have read (including The Age of Gold and Andrew Jackson: His Life and Times), and his knack for bringing history to life while composing excellently structured story lines is worthy of commendation.
The Last Romantic is a wonderful look at the life of Theodore Roosevelt. It would be difficult for anyone to write a boring book on the twenty-sixth president's life, and it would be hard for Brands to write a dud on any topic; therefore The Last Romantic seemed all but a surefire fantastic read...And it didn't disappoint.
The book traces Theodore's life from his New York City birth and well-traveled upbringing to his final days spent pestering Woodrow Wilson with his ideas for raising a World War One-bound division. It creates a rich portrait of a life well lived, weaving the key players of the Roosevelt years--Cecil Spring Rice, Henry Cabot Lodge, Alice Roosevelt, First Lady Edith Roosevelt and their children-into a story of a man constantly on the move.
While not overly critical of him, Brands does not spare his subject from criticism, frequently demonstrating T.R.'s penchant for reading the worst motives into his political enemies and not overlooking his habit of self-aggrandizement. The book rightfully criticizes his callous treatment of his first daughter, Alice, after the death of her mother, reminding readers that Roosevelt had personal failings outside of his political ones.
But the book also breathes life into the story of Roosevelt's adventurous years. The Last Romantic briskly tells of the trips to Europe, the Kettle Hill Charge in Cuba, the descent into progressivism which culminated in his 1912 break from the Republican Party; it plays all the hits one would expect in a T.R. biography.
The Last Romantic passes the test if a thorough single volume on Roosevelt's life (this one checks in at 800+ pages) is what a lover of history is after. Few questions will be left after completing it, and a much more in-depth understanding of this complex father, husband, lieutenant colonel, governor, and president will have been gained.
-Andrew Canfield Denver, Colorado
The Last Romantic is a wonderful look at the life of Theodore Roosevelt. It would be difficult for anyone to write a boring book on the twenty-sixth president's life, and it would be hard for Brands to write a dud on any topic; therefore The Last Romantic seemed all but a surefire fantastic read...And it didn't disappoint.
The book traces Theodore's life from his New York City birth and well-traveled upbringing to his final days spent pestering Woodrow Wilson with his ideas for raising a World War One-bound division. It creates a rich portrait of a life well lived, weaving the key players of the Roosevelt years--Cecil Spring Rice, Henry Cabot Lodge, Alice Roosevelt, First Lady Edith Roosevelt and their children-into a story of a man constantly on the move.
While not overly critical of him, Brands does not spare his subject from criticism, frequently demonstrating T.R.'s penchant for reading the worst motives into his political enemies and not overlooking his habit of self-aggrandizement. The book rightfully criticizes his callous treatment of his first daughter, Alice, after the death of her mother, reminding readers that Roosevelt had personal failings outside of his political ones.
But the book also breathes life into the story of Roosevelt's adventurous years. The Last Romantic briskly tells of the trips to Europe, the Kettle Hill Charge in Cuba, the descent into progressivism which culminated in his 1912 break from the Republican Party; it plays all the hits one would expect in a T.R. biography.
The Last Romantic passes the test if a thorough single volume on Roosevelt's life (this one checks in at 800+ pages) is what a lover of history is after. Few questions will be left after completing it, and a much more in-depth understanding of this complex father, husband, lieutenant colonel, governor, and president will have been gained.
-Andrew Canfield Denver, Colorado
December 30, 2020
One of my personal bucket list items that I accomplished was to read at least one biography of every U.S. President. When I tell people this, the question I’m often asked is “Which one was your favorite?” That’s a good question, but a difficult one. I’m still not sure I can answer it, but I’ve often proclaimed that my favorite subject matter was definitely Theodore Roosevelt. This is the conclusion I came to after reading the Edmund Morris trilogy of the 26th president. However, after now having read this dense volume of Roosevelt by author H.W. Brands, I’m not sure I could come to that same conclusion.
That’s not a knock on this book, nor is it really a knock on the subject matter. It’s just that after reading this bio, Theodore Roosevelt actually came across as much less of a “romantic” and more of a “real person”, warts and all. Author Brands doesn’t hide his warts, and I therefore wasn’t quite as enamored by Roosevelt as I was after reading the three books by Edmund Morris. There’s still a lot to love and admire, but I didn’t quite feel as drawn to everything about the man. There were simply characteristics about the man that are somewhat dated and not as admirable as they perhaps were in the late nineteenth century.
This is one of those books that immediately becomes intimidating when one picks up the physical copy. It’s over 800 pages of reading, but those who know Roosevelt know that such a length is quite necessary. This man had an incredibly rich, detailed life. In fact, after reading the Morris trilogy (obviously much longer as it was stretched over three books), one can see where there were many times where author Brands had to cut some necessary corners for this one.
Theodore Roosevelt led such an active, rich life, that at times you felt that he was three or four different, diverse characters who each warranted their own bio. There was the young man who was fascinated by zoology and collected a vast number of specimens in addition to making adventurous hunting trips in the badlands of the American West. There was the author who penned many non-fiction, well respected pieces; most notably on The War of 1812. There was the bloodthirsty adventurous Colonel who led a group of his famed Rough Riders charging up San Juan Hill. And let’s not forget the politician who would eventually become the country’s 26th president. These tasks he accomplished weren’t necessarily sequential either. For example, he served in Washington as the Assistant Secretary of the Navy, and THEN enlisted in the Spanish American War as leader of the Rough Riders. Less than six months later, he was Governor of New York.
The presidency soon followed, albeit by accident. He was William McKinley’s Vice President, yet McKinley’s term was cut short by an assassin’s bullet. Since Roosevelt accomplished so much in his lifetime, only a fair amount of this massive tome actually focuses on the man’s presidency. This might be the one area where some might feel a bit cheated. I’ve read enough presidential biographies where the entire content is only devoted to the tenure of the subject matter’s time in the Oval Office. So if you’re wanting a detailed account of the presidency between 1901 and 1908, this might not be the best book for you.
Speaking of Roosevelt’s presidency, it’s after his tenure his over, that his character flaws are obviously imminent. When you’ve lived such a rich life, what else is there to do when you’ve served as the highest officer of the free world? It seems Roosevelt can’t stand to idly sit by and let his predecessors govern. In fact, his immediate successor, William Taft, actually has a very cordial relationship with TR during Roosevelt’s tenure as president, and you get the feeling that Taft was somehow “handpicked” by Roosevelt to be the successor. Yet once Taft gets elected, Roosevelt can’t leave well enough alone, and somehow feels he still needs to pull the strings on his protégé puppet. So discord follows, and Roosevelt enters the next presidential race as a third-party candidate in 1912. Let’s just say things didn’t end well for him nor Taft; as what can commonly occur when a “strong” third party candidate enters the ring.
This was probably the biggest character flaw I saw of the man. Not only does he disapprove of his successors in the White House, but he plainly makes his views known in public, and comes across as quite whiny and ugly. There are other character flaws about him as well, yet again one must remember the times and that normal behavior of such people can come across as quite unpleasant. Not only was Roosevelt a notorious big game animal killer for the mere thrill, but you get the feeling that he often neglected his parental duties of his large family much more often than he should. We would read about his wife’s loneliness living with their brood in New York while Roosevelt was serving in Washington for months at a time, yet when his session was finally over, he would go on a six-month hunting excursion leaving his large family behind.
Perhaps his biggest drawback was his tendency to be a war monger. Like many men of old, Roosevelt believed that war is not only necessary, but it should be actively sought out. War is necessary to cut away the dead flesh of society, and too much peace only makes one soft. When World War I breaks out during his post presidency years, he loudly expects all of his sons to charge over and immerse themselves in the thick of the battle. (Not surprisingly, he throws a fit when current president Woodrow Wilson refuses to give him a commission.) Youngest son Quentin ends up killed in battle, and Roosevelt seems to somewhat change his jingoistic view of fighting due to the heartbreak. Shortly after, Roosevelt passes away a bit prematurely. It seems he contacts a strain of some sort of jungle fever on one of his latter-day explorations into South America.
This was a very good book. To be fair, I enjoyed the Morris trilogy a bit better simply because a man such as Roosevelt really deserves much more detail in covering his comprehensive life, but if one is wanting a more somewhat abbreviated narrative (again, this is over 800 pages), than this one won’t disappoint. As with all of H.W. Brands’ work, this one is very straightforward and easily digestible. I recommend this book along with everything else the author has written. And perhaps it’s good that I came away with a much more “honest” picture of Theodore Roosevelt.
That’s not a knock on this book, nor is it really a knock on the subject matter. It’s just that after reading this bio, Theodore Roosevelt actually came across as much less of a “romantic” and more of a “real person”, warts and all. Author Brands doesn’t hide his warts, and I therefore wasn’t quite as enamored by Roosevelt as I was after reading the three books by Edmund Morris. There’s still a lot to love and admire, but I didn’t quite feel as drawn to everything about the man. There were simply characteristics about the man that are somewhat dated and not as admirable as they perhaps were in the late nineteenth century.
This is one of those books that immediately becomes intimidating when one picks up the physical copy. It’s over 800 pages of reading, but those who know Roosevelt know that such a length is quite necessary. This man had an incredibly rich, detailed life. In fact, after reading the Morris trilogy (obviously much longer as it was stretched over three books), one can see where there were many times where author Brands had to cut some necessary corners for this one.
Theodore Roosevelt led such an active, rich life, that at times you felt that he was three or four different, diverse characters who each warranted their own bio. There was the young man who was fascinated by zoology and collected a vast number of specimens in addition to making adventurous hunting trips in the badlands of the American West. There was the author who penned many non-fiction, well respected pieces; most notably on The War of 1812. There was the bloodthirsty adventurous Colonel who led a group of his famed Rough Riders charging up San Juan Hill. And let’s not forget the politician who would eventually become the country’s 26th president. These tasks he accomplished weren’t necessarily sequential either. For example, he served in Washington as the Assistant Secretary of the Navy, and THEN enlisted in the Spanish American War as leader of the Rough Riders. Less than six months later, he was Governor of New York.
The presidency soon followed, albeit by accident. He was William McKinley’s Vice President, yet McKinley’s term was cut short by an assassin’s bullet. Since Roosevelt accomplished so much in his lifetime, only a fair amount of this massive tome actually focuses on the man’s presidency. This might be the one area where some might feel a bit cheated. I’ve read enough presidential biographies where the entire content is only devoted to the tenure of the subject matter’s time in the Oval Office. So if you’re wanting a detailed account of the presidency between 1901 and 1908, this might not be the best book for you.
Speaking of Roosevelt’s presidency, it’s after his tenure his over, that his character flaws are obviously imminent. When you’ve lived such a rich life, what else is there to do when you’ve served as the highest officer of the free world? It seems Roosevelt can’t stand to idly sit by and let his predecessors govern. In fact, his immediate successor, William Taft, actually has a very cordial relationship with TR during Roosevelt’s tenure as president, and you get the feeling that Taft was somehow “handpicked” by Roosevelt to be the successor. Yet once Taft gets elected, Roosevelt can’t leave well enough alone, and somehow feels he still needs to pull the strings on his protégé puppet. So discord follows, and Roosevelt enters the next presidential race as a third-party candidate in 1912. Let’s just say things didn’t end well for him nor Taft; as what can commonly occur when a “strong” third party candidate enters the ring.
This was probably the biggest character flaw I saw of the man. Not only does he disapprove of his successors in the White House, but he plainly makes his views known in public, and comes across as quite whiny and ugly. There are other character flaws about him as well, yet again one must remember the times and that normal behavior of such people can come across as quite unpleasant. Not only was Roosevelt a notorious big game animal killer for the mere thrill, but you get the feeling that he often neglected his parental duties of his large family much more often than he should. We would read about his wife’s loneliness living with their brood in New York while Roosevelt was serving in Washington for months at a time, yet when his session was finally over, he would go on a six-month hunting excursion leaving his large family behind.
Perhaps his biggest drawback was his tendency to be a war monger. Like many men of old, Roosevelt believed that war is not only necessary, but it should be actively sought out. War is necessary to cut away the dead flesh of society, and too much peace only makes one soft. When World War I breaks out during his post presidency years, he loudly expects all of his sons to charge over and immerse themselves in the thick of the battle. (Not surprisingly, he throws a fit when current president Woodrow Wilson refuses to give him a commission.) Youngest son Quentin ends up killed in battle, and Roosevelt seems to somewhat change his jingoistic view of fighting due to the heartbreak. Shortly after, Roosevelt passes away a bit prematurely. It seems he contacts a strain of some sort of jungle fever on one of his latter-day explorations into South America.
This was a very good book. To be fair, I enjoyed the Morris trilogy a bit better simply because a man such as Roosevelt really deserves much more detail in covering his comprehensive life, but if one is wanting a more somewhat abbreviated narrative (again, this is over 800 pages), than this one won’t disappoint. As with all of H.W. Brands’ work, this one is very straightforward and easily digestible. I recommend this book along with everything else the author has written. And perhaps it’s good that I came away with a much more “honest” picture of Theodore Roosevelt.
September 30, 2021
This was a good book, but not great. I really wished the author spent more time on TR's life outside of politics. The author focused heavily, almost brutally at times, on TR's political life, aspirations, and relationships and yet glossed over some of the man's most exciting adventures. His time with the Rough Riders comprised a chapter at best, maybe not even all of it. His adventure down the River of Doubt, which another author turned into an entire book, barely covered a chapter in this book. If you're looking for a book on the personal life, philosophies, and adventures of Teddy Roosevelt, this book isn't even it. It didn't even address the story behind the "Teddy" of Teddy Roosevelt; it glossed over it in a tossed-aside half reference in one sentence. However, the author does go exceedingly in depth on TR's political life, connections, and political maneuvering, almost painfully so. He really digs into the weeds of every minor political correspondence Teddy had with various politicians, but overall this book falls flat on bringing the story of Theodore Roosevelt to life.
August 16, 2020
Is it possible to write a bad book on Theodore Roosevelt? I think it would be very hard to do. However, I must say that I am glad this is not my first exposure to TR. (I started with the Edmund Morris 3 volume set.) Brands' TR is less Herculean than others. Brands offers a lot of analysis and cuts through TR's attempts to write his own history. Lost is the wow factor that I found in Morris' book. Also lost is a lot of the detail as this is a one volume work vs. three. It almost felt like a summary. Brands presents a more sober look at Roosevelt. Brands also provides lots of analysis. He tries to delve into the mind of TR. What seems to be missing is a lot of TRs relationships. Again, this is primarily due to the length of the book. On the whole, I enjoyed this book, but would not recommend it as a first read on the most fascinating man to hold the office of president.
September 8, 2008
This was actually the regular paperback edition of this book, but I couldn't find it from the selection provided.
I thought this was a great book! H.W. Brands gives an extremely fair representation of one of our nations most colorful men and presidents. Before reading I knew only vague things about TR, recalled from the deep dark corners of my mind. I enjoyed the factual aspects of the book, but also the personal parts that gave me an opportunity to see why TR became the person he became. It was very easy to see why Dr. Brands refers to him as "The Last Romantic"
I thought this was a great book! H.W. Brands gives an extremely fair representation of one of our nations most colorful men and presidents. Before reading I knew only vague things about TR, recalled from the deep dark corners of my mind. I enjoyed the factual aspects of the book, but also the personal parts that gave me an opportunity to see why TR became the person he became. It was very easy to see why Dr. Brands refers to him as "The Last Romantic"
February 16, 2015
I've been surprised by a few reviews that I've read here, stating that Brands paints TR in a negative light. To be sure, the author is critical of Roosevelt at time - for example, Roosevelt's private criticism of Wilson.
However, I believe that Brands weaves a balanced narrative of one of our nation's most extraordinary figures. If you're looking for someone that positions Roosevelt on a pedestal, this book is probably not for you. If you want an unvarnished story of one of America's most pivotal leaders during one of its most pivotal times, then I highly recommend this book. Enjoy!
However, I believe that Brands weaves a balanced narrative of one of our nation's most extraordinary figures. If you're looking for someone that positions Roosevelt on a pedestal, this book is probably not for you. If you want an unvarnished story of one of America's most pivotal leaders during one of its most pivotal times, then I highly recommend this book. Enjoy!
September 21, 2019
Meh. The Edmund Morris trilogy was significantly better. SIGNIFICANTLY. I just don’t know how a 800 page book managed to be so superficial! I’ve read a few Roosevelt biographies before so I didn’t expect to be surprised by much, but I’d have liked to learn SOMETHING. Not to be. Major policy initiatives get a paragraph but Brands’ theory on Roosevelt’s psychology (based on woefully little, I’ll add) manages to choke up whole chapters. I had to make myself finish the last- god help me- 300 pages of this one.
January 1, 2012
This is an enjoyable and informative portrait of a great American President. Much of what is right and wrong about the American Presidency and the role of federal government today can be traced to TR. He was a proud imperialist and crusader for the middle class, the poor, and the environment. Even where I believe him to be wrong, I admire Roosevelt's commitment and his moral and physical courage.
November 23, 2008
This tome is not for the timid - it is a beast, but worth every minute of it. The author provides a comprehensive view of TR's life. I think that Teddy was awesome, and this book gives him his justice.
January 14, 2009
Dear Sirs and Madams,
If you are considering a biography not written by Mr. Brands, you are in the act of doing yourself a grave disservice.
N,
V
If you are considering a biography not written by Mr. Brands, you are in the act of doing yourself a grave disservice.
N,
V
October 28, 2010
I love Brands writing style, includes in the broad sweep of this fascinating man's life enough detail to make us feel that we knew him. I would love to sit down for a long dinner with Teddy.
March 27, 2016
I just really love Teddy and this made me love him more.
May 30, 2025
A life well lived. Fascinating read.
May 3, 2022
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2020
I was intrigued by the subtitle of this book, considering the most widely-known reputation of the subject. However, the description was borne out in Roosevelt's own words, along with the author's deep research and synthesis of Roosevelt's lifetime acts and achievements. Roosevelt thought himself larger than life in many cases, and he felt his motives and actions came from a highly moral (and arguably self-righteous) place, and he cast himself as the one person who could and should champion the will of the people against those in a position to abuse their power. Roosevelt supported anti-trust legislation, labor rights, and environmental protection. He was also the first sitting President to expand the President's power to include more global events, as shown by his role in mediating peace between Japan and Russia, settling Germany claims against the French in Morocco, and most famously, his work to create the Panama Canal (a controversial event that will be the subject of my next reading). Missing from this work was much of the bravado as it commonly appears in most contemporary accounts of TR's life. Instead, we get a more human approach that does an even better job of relating to the reader who Roosevelt is, what his motives are, and how he views himself and the world around him, accomplished by a generous use of Roosevelt's personal correspondence and his published works. Of particular interest to me was TR's political life after his last term in the White House, which was characterized by a break with his party, the formation and leadership of a third party (which came in second to Wilson and ahead of incumbent Taft), and a rebirth of sorts of his political career shortly before his sudden death at the young age of 60. Overall, this was a great look into the life and career of one of history's most polarizing figures, and it provides a smooth transition into Woodrow Wilson's first term and America's eventual entry into World War I.
March 16, 2023
Overall I believe that Brands does a wonderful job describing the persona that is Roosevelt. From his larger than life personality to his obsession with acts of manliness. I learned so much about how Roosevelt thinks. I have come to appreciate his proclaimed staunch loyalty to his ideals (ie fighting in the army, developing the progressive party) set against the backdrop of his hypocritical acts (trying to build his own army against Wilson’s wishes, public criticism to the point of treason) and how he is able to compartmentalize these two opposing forces without even realizing the conflict.
Brand does a wonderful job describing this in a way that makes you root for Roosevelt and understand why the common people loved him so deeply. It makes me wish I could have been alive to have been one of his friends.
However, I wish Brand would have spent more time talking about his administration and what he achieved during his time as presidency. I wanted to understand more about how he influenced and shaped the country and how he took on large corporations and strengthened the unions. Ultimately I want to know about what our leaders did when they were given a chance to lead and I feel this part was glossed over.
Ultimately as a whole I did enjoy this book and have a new found appreciation for Theodore Roosevelt. But since I do not feel I truly understand his achievements and thinking while president I will need to read another book.
Brand does a wonderful job describing this in a way that makes you root for Roosevelt and understand why the common people loved him so deeply. It makes me wish I could have been alive to have been one of his friends.
However, I wish Brand would have spent more time talking about his administration and what he achieved during his time as presidency. I wanted to understand more about how he influenced and shaped the country and how he took on large corporations and strengthened the unions. Ultimately I want to know about what our leaders did when they were given a chance to lead and I feel this part was glossed over.
Ultimately as a whole I did enjoy this book and have a new found appreciation for Theodore Roosevelt. But since I do not feel I truly understand his achievements and thinking while president I will need to read another book.
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