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The Rough Riders · Question
How does The Rough Riders develop the theme of Race and Military Service?
Answer
The Rough Riders by Theodore Roosevelt develops Race and Military Service across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Roosevelt acknowledges the contributions of African American regulars (the 'colored' cavalry), praising their fighting qualities, though within the racial attitudes of his era, referring to them as 'smoked Yankees.'
Roosevelt's interaction with retreating colored infantrymen and the eventual acceptance of black soldiers by the Rough Riders highlights racial tensions and camaraderie.
Evidence in the book
- IV: The Cavalry at Santiago
Roosevelt's interaction with retreating colored infantrymen and the eventual acceptance of black soldiers by the Rough Riders highlights racial tensions and camaraderie.