This is not a new book having been published in 2014 but it has a new, interesting view of Teddy Roosevelt.
As the author, Edward P. Kohn states, most historians and enthusiasts of Teddy put great emphasis on the time he spent in the Badlands. This is always cited as the reason for his conservation instincts as well as his ability to relate to almost everyone from newsboy to corporate chiefs. Mr. Kohn does not negate the importance of the west to Teddy but places him firmly back where he really belongs – New York City.
Throughout his political career, no matter where he lived Roosevelt kept tabs on what was happening in the city of his birth. He was engaged in the political fights of the city even while living in Washington as Assistant Secretary of the Navy or as Vice President. The author also reminds us of the importance of Teddy’s branch of the Roosevelt family to not only the economy but political structure of New York City in the late 19th century. Teddy’s reforming instinct was formed at his father’s knee: social as well as political reform. This is also true of his instincts towards conservation.
Mr. Kohn manages to bring a fresh new look to one of the key figures of American history and returns him to his pivotal role in New York City politics.
Bowery & Canal 