Teddy Roosevelt Timeline

  • Theodore Roosevelt is born

    Theodore Roosevelt is born
    Theodore Roosevelt was born on October 27, 1858, in New York City, into a prominent family that instilled in him a strong sense of duty and public service. Despite his early struggles with health, he grew up to become a dynamic leader, eventually serving as the 26th President of the United States.
  • Named President when McKinley is assassinated

    Named President when McKinley is assassinated
    Theodore Roosevelt became the 26th President of the United States in 1901 following the assassination of President William McKinley. At age 42, he was the youngest person to assume the presidency, bringing dynamic leadership and progressive reforms to the nation.
  • The Anthracite Coal Strike

    The Anthracite Coal Strike
    The Anthracite Coal Strike of 1902 marked a pivotal energy crisis in the United States, as over 140,000 coal miners demanded better wages and working conditions, leading to a significant coal shortage. President Theodore Roosevelt's intervention was historic as it was the first time the federal government acted as a neutral arbitrator in a labor dispute, highlighting the importance of coal as a critical energy resource.
  • Pelican Island, Florida named first national wildlife refuge

    Pelican Island, Florida named first national wildlife refuge
    Pelican Island in Florida was designated as the first National Wildlife Refuge in 1903, thanks to President Theodore Roosevelt's commitment to conservation. This historic designation marked the beginning of the National Wildlife Refuge System, aimed at protecting native bird species from the threats of hunting and habitat destruction.
  • Elkins Act passed

    Elkins Act passed
    The Elkins Act, passed in 1903, was a significant piece of U.S. legislation aimed at curbing the discriminatory practices of railroads by prohibiting rebates to shippers and ensuring fair rates. This law strengthened the Interstate Commerce Commission's authority to regulate and enforce compliance within the railroad industry.
  • Wins first full term as President

    Wins first full term as President
    Theodore Roosevelt won his first full term as President in the 1904 election after initially assuming the presidency following McKinley's assassination. His landslide victory was a testament to his popularity and the public's support for his progressive policies and dynamic leadership
  • Devil’s Tower, Wyoming, named first national monument

    Devil’s Tower, Wyoming, named first national monument
    Devil's Tower in Wyoming, designated as the first U.S. National Monument in 1906, is a striking geological formation rising dramatically 1,267 feet above the surrounding terrain. Renowned for its unique columnar structure, this natural wonder is steeped in Native American legend and attracts climbers and nature enthusiasts from around the world.
  • Yosemite under Federal Control

    Yosemite under Federal Control
    In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt signed a bill that transferred control of Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove from the state of California to the federal government. This move was a significant step in Roosevelt's conservation efforts, ensuring the protection and preservation of Yosemite as part of the National Park System.
  • Passage of Pure Food And Drug Act

    Passage of Pure Food And Drug Act
    The Pure Food and Drug Act, passed in 1906, was a groundbreaking piece of legislation that aimed to protect consumers by prohibiting the sale of adulterated or mislabeled food and drugs. This act laid the foundation for the modern Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and marked a significant step forward in public health and safety regulations.
  • Leaves presidency, visits Africa

    Leaves presidency, visits Africa
    After leaving the presidency in 1909, Theodore Roosevelt embarked on an adventurous expedition to Africa, where he led the Smithsonian-Roosevelt African Expedition. This journey was both a scientific and explorative venture, resulting in the collection of numerous specimens for the Smithsonian Institution and further cementing Roosevelt's reputation as a passionate naturalist and explorer
  • Runs for presidency, unsuccessfully for Bull-Moose Party

    Runs for presidency, unsuccessfully for Bull-Moose Party
    In 1912, Theodore Roosevelt ran for presidency as the candidate of the Progressive Party, commonly known as the Bull Moose Party, after a split from the Republican Party. Despite his vigorous campaign and significant popular support, Roosevelt's bid was ultimately unsuccessful, leading to the election of Woodrow Wilson.