Nationalism and American Identity

Where it surfaces

• In Cowboy Land

  Roosevelt frames the passing of the Wild West as a national gain, celebrating the homesteader as the ideal American settler who builds the country.

• VII: The War of America the Unready

  Roosevelt discusses the need for the United States to take its foreign duties seriously and to be prepared for war to avoid dishonor, linking national greatness to military readiness.

• IX: Outdoors and Indoors

  Roosevelt highlights the self-respecting identification of American citizens with their President, as seen in the navy crew's cheers and the values of discipline and mutual respect.

• The Presidency; Making an Old Party Progressive

  Roosevelt's view of the President as a 'steward of the people' and his belief in using national power for the common well-being reflect a strong sense of American nationalism.

• The Big Stick and the Square Deal

  Roosevelt frames his policies as upholding American ideals of fairness and justice, contrasting his approach with the 'un-American' greed of monopolists.

• The Monroe Doctrine and the Panama Canal

  Roosevelt emphasizes the duty of the United States to assert its rights and fulfill its responsibilities as a great nation, framing the Panama Canal as a national and international necessity.

• Appendix A

  Roosevelt asserts U.S. interests in building the canal, emphasizing national benefit and the need to act decisively against Colombian obstruction.

• The Peace of Righteousness

  Roosevelt emphasizes American naval strength and the positive impression of the Panama Canal and fleet cruise on foreign nations.

• Appendix B: The Control of Corporations and 'The New Freedom'

  Roosevelt appeals to the idea of a free country where the people, not trusts, are masters.

• Endnotes

  Roosevelt's actions, such as the fleet's cruise and the Panama Canal, are framed as asserting American strength and global influence.