New York: A Sketch of the City's Social, Political, and Commercial Progress from the First Dutch Settlement to Recent Times

by Theodore Roosevelt, William N. Tilchin (Introduction)

Theodore Roosevelt's New York , published in 1891, was one of forty titles he authored during his lifetime. Roosevelt sets out, as he declares in his preface, "to trace the causes which gradually changed a little Dutch trading-hamlet into a huge American city." New York admirably accomplishes this objective. Proceeding chronologically, Roosevelt maintains control of his concise narrative throughout, recounting events clearly while continually providing well-considered and enlightening analysis. In suitable places-without disrupting the narrative-Roosevelt offers the reader his perspectives on a variety of broader topics, including his admiration for leaders who combine boldness with wisdom and moderation and his perceptive outlook on the frequent lack of connection between wealth accumulation and good character and meaningful living. While Roosevelt's own time as an exemplary top-level "man in the arena" was still years away, in this revealing and engaging book about his native city by a historian then in his early thirties, there are glimpses of the mindset and temperament of the world-historical leader who was to preside over the government of the United States from 1901 to 1909-yet another reason why Roosevelt's classic book New York remains well worth reading.

Genres: History

178 pages, Paperback

First published February 4, 2004

About the author

Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., also known as T.R., and to the public (but never to friends and family) as Teddy, was the twenty-sixth President of the United States, and a leader of the Republican Party and of the Progressive Movement.

He fathered Alice Roosevelt Longworth, a daughter.

He became the youngest President in United States history at the age of 42. He served in many roles including Governor of New York, historian, naturalist, explorer, author, and soldier (posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 2001 for his role at the Battle of San Juan Hill in the Spanish-American War).

Roosevelt is most famous for his personality: his energy, his vast range of interests and achievements, his model of masculinity, and his "cowboy" persona.

Reviews

[Stuart Endick · Rating 4 out of 5]

During his long career of public service Theodore Roosevelt supplemented his income by writing books on history, nature, politics, and his personal adventures. This volume was envisioned to be part of an “historic towns” series in emulation of a series about cities in Great Britain, but only the present volume on New York and one on Boston (authored by Roosevelt’s friend Henry Cabot Lodge) were evidently produced on American cities. Although TR likely received the commission through his connections, his scholarship and background made him eminently qualified to author this vigorous popular and opinionated history. Except for the colonial period the book is relatively light on details about geography, architecture, and details of the city’s history. Instead it is TR’s take on the shaping of the character of NYC and the American character in general as influenced by historical movements and major events. Be prepared that Roosevelt was influenced by the prejudices of his era, although these are tempered by his progressive sentiments, such as recognizing the evils of gross income inequality. Fans of Roosevelt will appreciate the vigor of his writing style although the last half of the book clearly seems dashed off. It’s definitely worthwhile for those interested in TR and this type of antiquarian book.

[Billy · Rating 3 out of 5]

What I read is an abridged version. It's an interesting history of New York City from its Dutch beginnings to about 1890. Written with a deeply paternalistic 19th century mindset, the book is tempered with a democratic, if somewhat progressive bent about the virtues of people choosing their rulers. The evil of the robber barons who care only for money deeply offends TR. Those blessed with success and fortune need to give back and help the struggling masses. The genius of polyglot New York is clear to Roosevelt -- an early paean to diversity.