Theodore Roosevelt Leadership Style

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If one ranks leaders on how well they led by example, surely one of our greatest leaders is none less than the 26th U.S. president, Theodore Roosevelt. “Do as I say, not as I do” is a philosophy that many leaders take, however, this builds bitter resentment in the eyes of the people. The best leaders have always been ones who lead by example, showing their followers how its done, both speaking of ideals and showing them. Theodore Roosevelt led by example by working against big businesses that oppressed consumers, working for the betterment of himself, and fighting for what he believed in. Roosevelt showed his commitment to the american people by smashing large businesses that were making monopolies. “He criticized the wealthy class of Americans…[for] …show more content…
“‘In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing.’ -Teddy Roosevelt (BrainyQuote 1)” This anti-bystander attitude saw Roosevelt become president, fight in the Spanish-American war, and improve himself to be tougher than was thought possible from a formerly weak, sickly boy. Undoubtedly it shows him as a man of action, and, more often than not, these actions were seen as the ‘right thing’ by many. “With...bul­let frag­ments still lodged in his torso, Teddy took to the stage and deliv­ered the speech as promised. (The Clymb 1)” This shows his commitment to doing his duties; although he could have abandoned his speech for a hospital, his decision shows his determination to follow through with his commitments. Additionally, it helps him lead by example because if everyone strived to be as Teddy was, America would quickly be filled by the dutiful and the tough. “Taking a keen interest in the Spanish-American War, Roosevelt left his government post to organize a volunteer cavalry known as the Rough Riders(Theodore Roosevelt 1)” This shows again his anti-bystander attitude; he felt as if he should avenge the American lives lost in the Alamo, so instead of sitting back and letting others fight for him, he personally organized a unit of cavalry to take the fight to Mexico. This is definitely leading by example, as many saw Roosevelt’s bravery and as such endeavored to join him in his quest. Teddy Roosevelt was known for fighting for what he believed in, and so is, beyond the shadow of a doubt, a leader who led by example. Teddy Roosevelt was such a great leader because he stood up for the people against oppressors, improved himself to a great degree, and fought for what he believed in. He showed immense courage and determination. If his example was followed more closely by modern

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