Page:Men of Mark in America vol 1.djvu/30

2 which is setting in the opposite direction, and makes for amity, conciliation and peace among nations. President Roosevelt stands where all eyes are focused upon his action. He has been alert to recognize, strengthen and utilize every leaning of the public mind to this "better way" of discussion and arbitration, not only in our internal affairs, but in all our relations with foreign governments, now so much more important and complex than in the early days of the Republic. He has shown wisdom in the choice of his cabinet, notably in retaining Mr. Hay. Our diplomatic relations are stronger and more influential than ever before in our history. His administration is the reflex of his own character. His character is the product of his early environment, of his education, and of his own choice and will, influenced (but not dominated) by the age in which his lot is cast.

President Roosevelt holds a place exceptionally his own in the affection, faith and admiration of the American people. His principles, politics and aims are as broad as the nation. He has been able to impress his puissant individuality on them, as only the towering figures of our history have done. He is a strong leader; a powerful organizer. His record as well as his character have given the people entire confidence in him as their chief executive.

Theodore Roosevelt was born in New York city, October 27, 1858. He is the son of Theodore Roosevelt (1831-78). Of his father, President Roosevelt writes for the readers of this book: "His marked characteristics were fearlessness, gentleness, intense energy and practicality, and great unselfishness. He always drilled into us that we had to work, that we had to count in the world, that we must not be afraid, and that we must be unselfish and truthful." He was a glass importer, in Maiden Lane, New York. A man of large-minded philanthropy he helped to organize the Sanitary Commission at the time of the Civil war, the Protective War Claims Association, the Soldiers' Employment Bureau; he was vice-president of the State Charities Aid Association, and later its president; he founded a hospital and dispensary for the treatment of hopeless spine and hip diseases; he was a trustee of the Children's Aid Society and never missed a Sunday evening with his newsboys. He projected the first efforts for civil service reform. He bequeathed to his son an interest in these great measures, and has left an example of unselfish civic service and self-forgetting philanthropy which has had a marked