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Primary sourceBook1914

Through the Brazilian Wilderness

Theodore Roosevelt · 1914

Theodore Roosevelt's written account of his 1913–14 expedition into the Brazilian interior, including his near-fatal journey down the River of Doubt.

Roosevelt wrote this account of the grueling South American expedition that nearly killed him after his presidency.

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About this source

What it is

This is Through the Brazilian Wilderness, a book written by Theodore Roosevelt describing an expedition into South America that he undertook after leaving the presidency. It recounts the journey down a previously unmapped river, made with Brazilian explorer Cândido Rondon's expedition.

Why it matters

The book shows Roosevelt's restless search for adventure and scientific exploration even after his political career. It documents a journey in which he was badly injured and became seriously ill, nearly costing him his life. The opening passage shows how the trip began almost by chance, through a conversation with a friend.

Look closer

  • Why might a former president choose to risk his life on such a dangerous expedition?
  • What does the writing style tell you about how Roosevelt wanted this adventure to be remembered?
  • Whose names and roles are mentioned, and whose might be missing from the story?

This book 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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