Theodore Roosevelt believed in a strong federal government and used the presidency to advance progressive reforms known as the Square Deal. He broke up trusts by filing antitrust suits, intervened in strikes, regulated railroads, passed acts to improve food safety and conservation, and took modest steps to support civil rights, such as appointing the first African American head of a federal office in the South. Roosevelt saw the presidency as a platform to shape policy and ensure the common people received a fair deal.

1. Ch.9 sec. 3Teddy Roosevelt’s Square Deal

2. Theodore RooseveltCame from a wealthy family Became a hero after his volunteer cavalry brigade (rough riders) fought in the battle at San Juan Hill in CubaBecame youngest president ever (42) when McKinley was assassinatedCreated the Modern PresidencyActing boldly, using personality and popularity to advance programs, taking responsibility for national welfare.

3. Square DealRoosevelt saw the presidency as a place from which he could influence the news media and shape legislationWanted common people to receive a square dealUsed to describe various progressive reforms sponsored by Roosevelt administration

4. Using Federal PowerRoosevelt believed the US needed a strong federal governmentFocused on breaking up trusts- filed 44 suits under Sherman Anti-trust actIntervened in 1902 Coal strike by mediating at the white houseSet a president for federal intervention with strikes that threatened public welfarePassed several acts to help government regulate railroads

5. Health and EnvironmentPassed the Meat Inspection Act- dictated strict cleanliness requirements for meatpackers and set up federal inspectionsPure food and drug act- halted the sale of contaminated food and medicines and called for truth in labelingBegan conservation measures such as setting aside 148 million acres of forest reserves and establishing over 50 wildlife sanctuaries

6. Civil RightsRoosevelt did not support civil rights for African AmericansHe supported a few individual African AmericansAppointed an African American as head of the Charleston, S. Carolina customhouse