Theodore Roosevelt (October 27; 1858 - January 6; 1919); often referred to by his initials TR; was an American statesman; author; explorer; soldier; naturalist; and reformer who served as the 26th President of the United States. A leader of the Republican Party; he was a leading force of the Progressive Era.

He served as Assistant Secretary of the Navy under William McKinley; resigning after one year to serve with the First US Voluntary Cavalry Regiment or 'Rough Riders'; gaining national fame for courage during the War in Cuba.

During World War I; he opposed President Wilson for keeping the US out of the war against Germany; and offered his military services; which were never summoned. Although he planned to run again for president in 1920; his health quickly deteriorated; and he died in early 1919. Roosevelt has consistently been ranked by scholars as one of the greatest US Presidents. His face adorns Mount Rushmore alongside Washington; Jefferson; and Lincoln. Pictures From History