Wilsonian Progressivism vs. Roosevelt Progressivism
The late 19th century to early 20th century is characterized as the Progressive Era. This is when reformers strived for better welfare policies and more rights for the people. Although three presidents reigned during this movement, only two are known for their policies. Theodore Roosevelt, the arrogant and egomaniacal president spoke out of ambition, whereas Woodrow Wilson, the more morally inclined leader spoke out of actual desire. Both had similar ideas, but their means of displaying them, and actually carrying through were different. Roosevelt was militaristic and felt war solved everything. Wilson was a pacifist and felt America should try to help their own people first before going to war. Roosevelt fought for the protection of the environment, while Wilson persistently pushed for a better educational system. Primarily though, both patriotic leaders strove for a middle path between the mobs and the boss. Therefore, although both Roosevelt and Wilson were leaders of the Progressive Movement, Roosevelt's big, verbose speeches differed entirely from Wilson's platform to directly help the people. Theodore Roosevelt began his political career as vice president under William McKinley. Nicknamed the "Rough Rider", Roosevelt was immediately characterized as militaristic and arrogant. He felt that war solved any problem, and was always eager to fight. He was also an imperialist and succeeded in increasing the size of the American empire. Roosevelt found himself relating more to the soldier, and therefore sympathized with all American veterans. He also admired the hunter, the cowboy, the frontiersmen, and the naval hero. In other words, Roosevelt hated the wealthy. He felt they had spent too long controlling society, and their dictatorial reign should end immediately. As much as this was true, Roosevelt also feared the poor and working class mobs. Although they had limited resources, they had power in numbers, since the poorer classes dominated the country.