Hello Again,
Chapter five of Manliness and Civilization describes Theodore Roosevelt and his thoughts on "civilization" in his rise to being President of the United States. From a historical standpoint, Theodore Roosevelt's meteoric rise from New York assemblyman to President of the United States was a story of political ambition and being fortunate enough to capitalize on political opportunities in a turbulent time period in American history. One political and social thought about which Roosevelt detailed in his writings was about the idea of "civilization." Bederman's quote, "Roosevelt drew on "civilization" to help formulate his larger politics as an advocate for both nationalism and imperialism." helps explain Roosevelt's pragmatic and distinctively American rise to power. "Civilization" and a outgoing persona would help Roosevelt become a popular figure in American during this time period.
Thanks
Thomas,
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure that Bederman would agree with the comment that Teedy was driven to the presidency by political ambition. She seems to be making the argument that he was primarily influenced by his Darwinist beliefs. He seemed to believe that "civilized" races had an obligation to advance and to expand their territorial control. Therefore, he sought the presidency not for personal ambition, but to advance his the white man's millennial drive towards perfect civilization. Thoughts?