Distinguishing Roosevelt & Wilson

Roosevelt vs Wilson

Roosevelt and Wilson are two significant figures in modern American history, both serving two terms as US Presidents. Although both were Progressive Presidents, they had different approaches and methods to achieve similar goals. They even competed against each other for the presidency during the 1912 election. While Roosevelt was seen as a common man’s President, Wilson was considered a better progressive President of the country. This article aims to closely examine their personalities and principles to highlight their differences.

Key Takeaways

• Theodore Roosevelt was the 26th President of the US, serving from 1901 to 1909, and was known for his reformist policies and charismatic personality.
• Woodrow Wilson was the 28th President of the US, serving from 1913 to 1921, and is especially known for his economic reforms and role in shaping the post-World War I world.
• Roosevelt believed in the benefits of big businesses, while Wilson believed in fair competition and disliked monopolies by large businesses.

Theodore Roosevelt

Theodore Roosevelt became the youngest US President at the age of 43 when he was elected after the assassination of McKinley. His presidency lasted from 1901 to 1909. Widely regarded as one of the best and most intelligent Presidents, Roosevelt was a true symbol of the progressive era. He surprised many with his ability and charismatic personality, achieving numerous accomplishments during his tenure. His reformist policies earned him the nickname “Teddy,” which he despised but became synonymous with the famous Teddy bear. Roosevelt’s domestic policies were known as the “Square Deal,” which he described as a fair deal for the masses.

Woodrow Wilson

Woodrow Wilson served as the 28th President of the US from 1913 to 1921. A Democrat and devout Presbyterian, he believed that the President should always put the interests of the people first. Wilson was instrumental in passing key legislation and the Treaty of Versailles, which shaped the post-World War I world. The Underwood-Simmons Tariff Act, passed during his tenure, brought much-needed income to the treasury. A devout Christian, Wilson believed that the US was destined to lead the world as a Christian nation. His economic reforms significantly contributed to the development of the modern American economy.

What is the difference between Roosevelt and Wilson?

• Roosevelt believed that big businesses brought efficiency and increased productivity, although he was against the abuse of power by large companies. In contrast, Wilson believed in fair competition and opposed monopolies by big businesses.
• Roosevelt was the 26th President, while Wilson was the 28th President.
• Historians often refer to Roosevelt as a “Warrior” and Wilson as a “Priest.”
• Wilson is known for his economic reforms and promoting the Treaty of Versailles to the public.
• Roosevelt is considered one of the best US Presidents.
• Roosevelt’s domestic agenda was known as the “Square Deal” for the masses.