Roosevelt vs Wilson Essay Example

the Western Hemisphere was restricted to Europe while pledging that America would abstain from meddling with their domestic affairs. Despite his audacious and somewhat confrontational approaches, Roosevelt's deeds underscored America's actual power and sway. Nevertheless, when Wilson was elected in 1913, there was a slight shift in direction.

Instead of relying solely on American authority, Wilson aimed to convince Americans that foreign intervention was in their best interest. Like Roosevelt, he disregarded those who founded the country and continued to involve America in international affairs. In his annual State of the Union address to Congress, Wilson advocated for intervening wherever and whenever necessary to prevent aggression, stating "We insist upon security in prosecuting our self-chosen lines of national development. We do more than that. We demand it also for others."

Wilson's belief in individual liberty and free national development extends beyond events that only affect America, to any people striving for independence and justice (Wilson, 1913). Despite Wilson's espousal of neutrality, his philosophy was contradictory, as he sought to present a facade of American innocence, righteousness, benevolence, and mercy. This image was so successful that when the Germans shot and sunk the Lusitania in enemy waters, it painted a clear picture: America was the victim while Germany was the immoral attacker. The Maine incident prompted Roosevelt and his Rough Riders to enter the Cuban battlefield, while the sinking of the Lusitania compelled Wilson to lead the fight against the Central Powers in World War I.

Thanks to Wilson, the United Nations has been established, yet it is equally ineffectual as its predecessor, the League of Nations, in its efforts to establish international law. Roosevelt also harbored aspirations for

reforms within the U.S., launching a comprehensive program of progressive reform known as The New Nationalism. This extensive initiative aimed to overhaul every facet of American society, but it conspicuously omitted any proposals related to race relations.

The New Nationalism involved greater government intervention in American life, with the aim of effecting necessary change. Roosevelt believed that for the nation to succeed, the federal government must play a central role, as national efficiency depends on various factors and the principle of conservation being widely applied.

According to Roosevelt in 1910, national efficiency is not only about natural resources and people, but also institutions. The State and nation must be made efficient for their respective work. Roosevelt emphasized the importance of railroad development, growth of the food and drugs corporations, and equal rights for the poor. However, the square deal did not benefit everyone as women and African-Americans suffered greatly without Roosevelt's help. Despite championing women's rights to some extent, Roosevelt still expected them to adhere to traditional societal roles such as marriage and childbirth.

Bowles (2011) stated that Roosevelt's views on race were in line with the norm during his era. He believed in segregation as a solution to prevent occurrences like lynching in the South and as a means of safeguarding those he deemed inferior. Following Taft's reign, the Republican Party split, leading to Wilson being nominated by Democrats due to his background and dedication to change. Wilson campaigned for "New Freedom" reforms opposing Roosevelt's "New Nationalism," intending to decrease tariff protection, enhance banking systems, and reinforce anti-trust laws.

According to Wilson, passing the three proposed reforms would put an end to monopoly control and restore freedom. The

New Freedom plan didn't include any social justice provisions. Wilson believed that citizens didn't want government caretaking but rather competition reinstated in order for the free enterprise system to function and for citizens to prosper. He stated, "I don't want to live under philanthropy. I don't want government to care for me, whether directly or through any government instruments. I only desire that right and justice are upheld in my regard."

During the era of Progressivism, individuals such as Wilson and "T" had a strong desire for change and reform. Wilson expressed his willingness to take responsibility for himself if he were given "right and justice." Meanwhile, if the government were to oversee trusts as a means of developing the country, "T" quoted an old Spanish proverb, proclaiming "God save me from my friends, and I'll take care of my enemies." Despite their differing perspectives, both men approached their goals with great determination and commitment to advancing society.

The Roosevelt and Wilson administrations contributed to our nation's progress in freedom through opposing foreign policy approaches. Roosevelt's policies brought true independence from Europe, while Wilson's humble approach to the United Nations prevented further loss at the beginning of World War I. Although their methods were conflicting, both leaders positively impacted our nation's freedom.

Our country underwent significant changes as a result of foreign policy, reforms, and Progressivism spearheaded by Roosevelt and Wilson.