Thomas Sowell takes Teddy down a notch.
Here is some more analysis of TR in the wake of Time's TR issue.
I know Jarrod is a fan, but I certainly am not. There is no doubt TR was a progressive although he did recognize America should wield a big stick and had a much more realistic foreign policy than the too-influential Wilson. According to a Mt. Rushmore tourist site, TR stands for the 20th century role of the United States in world affairs. This is, perhaps, fitting considering the century that followed TR.
TR certainly wielded the presidency like a big stick. TR was the first modern president, expanding the role of the office in many ways for better or worse. He infused the office with his personality. This is likely why he is remembered so fondly.
