Thomas Jefferson

Everyone one has a different opinion on which American president left the boldest mark on American History. The president I believe left the boldest mark on American History is Theodore Roosevelt who served from 1901-1909. There are several reasons I have chosen Theodore Roosevelt above all other presidents. There were his private contributions as a war hero before his presidency, antitrust efforts, the construction of the Panama Canal, conservation efforts and, propelling America into a world of politics. Roosevelt was given a Noble Peace Prize in 1906 for negotiating various peace treaties and in 2001 after his death; he was awarded a Medal of Honor for his actions during the Spanish American War.

Retaining a president that was willing to give up his life for his country is very attractive to voters. I think it means that this individual is truly invested in his country, not that individuals without military service are any less invested or qualified to be president. In President Roosevelt’s case, he proved himself to be a leader and motivator of men during the battles he was part of, just as latter in his life he proved that he understands how important peace is. He was forced into his presidency as he was voted in as the vice president for President McKinley, who was assassinated at the Pan-American Exposition in New York. His anti-trust efforts still have an impact today because large companies are unable to monopolize the markets. This has a huge effect even today as the government tries to keep businesses from buying each other up to form a large conglomerate that could take over the market.

Theodore Roosevelt did not singlehandedly complete the construction of the Panama Canal, but he did play a major role in ensuring that the project was followed through. He understood that there needed to be a quicker and safer passage between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans than around Cape Horn. This certainly played a big role in transportation...