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Primary sourceSpeech1910

The New Nationalism

Theodore Roosevelt · 1910

Roosevelt's 1910 speech laying out his progressive political program, calling for democracy and opportunity for all.

Roosevelt delivered this speech himself, making it a direct primary source for his political beliefs.

Full text (Wikisource)

About this source

What it is

This is the text of a speech given by Theodore Roosevelt in 1910, known as "The New Nationalism." In it he spoke about democracy, popular government, and an economic system that gives every person a chance to succeed.

Why it matters

This speech is a key primary source for understanding Roosevelt's progressive political ideas after he left the presidency. He connects America's history, including the Civil War, to his vision of what the country should stand for. It reveals how Roosevelt saw the United States' role in the wider world and what he believed government should do for ordinary citizens.

Look closer

  • What words does Roosevelt use to describe democracy and opportunity, and what do they tell you about his values?
  • Why does he connect this speech to the Civil War and the

This speech is part of the curated material that grounds the AI version of Theodore Roosevelt on Humy.ai — when students ask about related events, the AI can quote it and cite it.

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