The turn of the 20th century represented one of the most chaotic periods in the nation's history, as immigrants, Native Americans, and African Americans struggled with their roles as Americans while white America feared their encroachments on national identity. This book examines Theodore Roosevelt’s public rhetoric—speeches, essays, and narrative histories—as he attempted to craft one people out of many. Leroy G. Dorsey observes that Roosevelt's solution to the problem appeared straightforward: everyone could become "Americans, pure and simple" if they embraced his notion of "Americanism." Roosevelt grounded his idea of Americanism in myth, particularly the frontier myth—a heroic combination of individual strength and character. When nonwhites and immigrants demonstrated these traits, they would become true Americans, earning an exalted status that they had heretofore been denied. Dorsey’s analysis illuminates how Roosevelt's rhetoric achieved a number of delicate, if problematic, balancing acts. Roosevelt gave his audiences the opportunity to accept a national identity that allowed "some" room for immigrants and nonwhites, while reinforcing their status as others, thereby reassuring white Americans of their superior place in the nation. Roosevelt’s belief in an ordered and unified nation did not overwhelm his private racist attitudes, Dorsey argues, but certainly competed with them. Despite his private sentiments, he recognized that racist beliefs and rhetoric were divisive and bad for the nation’s progress. The resulting message he chose to propagate was thus one of a rhetorical, if not literal, melting pot. By focusing on Roosevelt’s rhetorical constructions of national identity, as opposed to his personal exploits or his role as a policy maker, We Are All Americans offers new insights into Roosevelt’s use of public discourse to bind the nation together during one of the most polarized periods in its history.

The turn of the 20th century represented one of the most chaotic periods in the nation's history, as immigrants, Native Americans, and African Americans struggled with their roles as Americans while white America feared their encroachments on national identity. This book examines Theodore Roosevelt’s public rhetoric—speeches, essays, and narrative histories—as he attempted to craft one people out of many. Leroy G. Dorsey observes that Roosevelt's solution to the problem appeared straightforward: everyone could become "Americans, pure and simple" if they embraced his notion of "Americanism." Roosevelt grounded his idea of Americanism in myth, particularly the frontier myth—a heroic combination of individual strength and character. When nonwhites and immigrants demonstrated these traits, they would become true Americans, earning an exalted status that they had heretofore been denied. Dorsey’s analysis illuminates how Roosevelt's rhetoric achieved a number of delicate, if problematic, balancing acts. Roosevelt gave his audiences the opportunity to accept a national identity that allowed "some" room for immigrants and nonwhites, while reinforcing their status as others, thereby reassuring white Americans of their superior place in the nation. Roosevelt’s belief in an ordered and unified nation did not overwhelm his private racist attitudes, Dorsey argues, but certainly competed with them. Despite his private sentiments, he recognized that racist beliefs and rhetoric were divisive and bad for the nation’s progress. The resulting message he chose to propagate was thus one of a rhetorical, if not literal, melting pot. By focusing on Roosevelt’s rhetorical constructions of national identity, as opposed to his personal exploits or his role as a policy maker, We Are All Americans offers new insights into Roosevelt’s use of public discourse to bind the nation together during one of the most polarized periods in its history.

The Complete Works of Theodore Roosevelt, curated with the insight of Henry Cabot Lodge, presents an unparalleled exploration of the diverse literary and political landscape at the turn of the 20th century. This collection showcases the remarkable breadth of Roosevelts contributions to American political thought, conservation efforts, and international diplomacy, alongside his lesser-known literary endeavors. The anthology spans a variety of literary styles, from pointed political discourse and eloquent speeches to personal correspondence and reflective essays, embracing the complexity and richness of Roosevelt's intellect and passions. The collective heritage of authors Theodore Roosevelt and Henry Cabot Lodge, rooted deeply in the American political sphere, offers readers a unique lens through which to examine the era's prevailing historical, cultural, and literary movements. Their intertwined careers in public service and literature provide a rich contextual background that enhances the anthology's coherence and depth. The collaboration between these two towering figures of American history and literature reflects the vibrancy and dynamism of the period, offering insights into their shared values and divergent perspectives on key issues of their time. This anthology is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in the confluence of American politics, history, and literature. It invites readers into a fascinating dialogue between Roosevelts expansive body of work and Lodges discerning editorial voice, offering a unique opportunity to appreciate the depth and diversity of thought that characterized the early 20th century. Engaging with this collection promises not just educational value, but a deeper understanding of the complexities that have shaped the American narrative.

This edition includes: Autobiography The Naval War of 1812 Hero Tales from American History The Winning of the West Through the Brazilian Wilderness Letters to His Children The Rough Riders A Book-Lover's Holidays in the Open Hunting The Grisly And Other Sketches America and the World War Average Americans The Strenuous Life Expansion and Peace Fellow-Feeling as Political Factor Character & Success History as Literature Biological Analogies in History The World Movement The Thraldom of Names Productive Scholarship Dante and the Bowery The Foundations of the Nineteenth Century The Search for Truth in a Reverent Spirit The Ancient Irish Sagas An Art Exhibition The Duties of American Citizenship Professionalism in Sports Practical Work in Politics Resignation Letter Colonel Roosevelt's Reports Strength & Decency The Square Deal Nobel Peace Prize Acceptance Speech The Man With the Muck Rake Sons of the Puritans Where We Can Work With Socialists Where We Cannot Work With Socialists Citizenship in a Republic (the Man in the Arena) International Peace The New Nationalism Duty & Self-control The Right of the People to Rule I Have Just Been Shot Address to the Boys Progressive League Address to the Knights of Columbus