-- Jurdam and MHS' Peter Drummed discuss Theodore Roosevelt, Henry Cabot Lodge, & the Friendship That Changed American History --
Recorded 6 July 2023 at Massachusetts Historical Society.
While Theodore Roosevelt employed his abilities to rise from unknown New York legislator to the youngest man to assume the presidency in 1901, Laurence Jurdem argues that this rapid success would not have occurred without the assistance of the powerful New Englander, Henry Cabot Lodge. As both men climbed the ladders of power, Lodge, focused on dominating the political landscape of Massachusetts, served as the future president’s confidant and mentor, advising him on political strategy while helping him obtain positions in government that would eventually lead to the White House. Roosevelt’s desire to expand the social safety net-while attempting to broaden the appeal of the Republican Party-clashed with his older friend's more conservative, partisan point of view. Lodge's refusal to support the former president's independent bid for a third presidential term led to a political break-up that was only repaired by each man's hatred for the policies of Woodrow Wilson. Despite their political disagreements, Roosevelt and Lodge remained devoted friends until the Rough Rider took his final breath.
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