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Theodore Roosevelt was born in New York City. This marks the beginning of the life of a man who would become a major figure in U.S. conservation, progressive reform, and national policy. -
The U.S. Congress passed a bill granting Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Big Tree Grove to California for public use, bringing Yosemite under federal protection. -
After President William McKinley died of his wounds, Vice President Theodore Roosevelt was sworn in as the 26th President. -
The Anthracite Coal Strike of 1902, led by the United Mine Workers, threatened coal supplies in winter. President Roosevelt intervened and helped mediate a settlement, marking a strong federal role in labor disputes. -
The Elkins Act made it illegal for railroads to offer rebates to favored shippers, strengthening regulation of railroad abuses. -
Roosevelt designated Pelican Island as the first federal bird reservation, later the first national wildlife refuge, protecting bird nesting grounds. -
Roosevelt won election in his own right (after having assumed office via McKinley’s death). -
The Pure Food and Drug Act was passed to prohibit the adulteration or misbranding of food and drugs in interstate commerce — a major consumer protection measure. -
Using the authority of the Antiquities Act, Roosevelt proclaimed Devil’s Tower as the first U.S. national monument on September 24, 1906. -
After leaving the presidency (in March 1909), Roosevelt embarked on an extended African safari and expedition to collect specimens and explore East Africa. -
Roosevelt ran for president again in 1912 as the candidate of the Progressive (Bull Moose) Party but lost to Democrat Woodrow Wilson.