The Progressive Era's Presidents
Roosevelt, Taft, and Woodrow Wilson
Theodore Roosevelt
Biography
Report Card
Roosevelt managed to become a war hero. He was also capable of convincing Americans to vote for Taft, whom Roosevelt originally supported. Roosevelt, his his Bull Moose Party, managed to run one of the most powerful third party campaigns in American history.
Organization - B
Roosevelt was deemed a "trust-buster." He also facilitated the construction of the Panama Canal.
Professionalism - B
The public admired Theodore Roosevelt, but he wasn't considered the conventional president of his time.
Contributions - B
Roosevelt's policies would affect the development of America and Latin American countries to this day with his idea that America should police the entire hemisphere.
William Howard Taft
Biography
Report Card
Taft was not nearly as well-received as Roosevelt. In fact, Roosevelt was so unhappy with his poor leadership that he formed a rival party against him.
Organization - B+
Taft was a major trust-buster, breaking twice as many as Roosevelt. He also gave America direct election of senators.
Professionalism - C+
Taft was not known for being great at speeches, and did not have the same level of energy that Roosevelt had.
Contributions - B
Taft created the direct election of senators, which is still in place today.
Woodrow Wilson
Biography
Report Card
Wilson managed to keep America out of World War I, but changed his policies in his second term.
Organization - B+
Wilson managed to pass child labor laws. Wilson also helped to negotiate the Treaty Of Versailles. He also helped to pass the 19th Amendment.
Professionalism - B
Wilson managed to be liked by the public, but often could not compromise with Republicans.
Contributions - B
Wilson brought America into World War I, which would contribute to the outcome of the war. Wilson also helped to pass the 19th Amendment, which allowed women to vote.