Ep. 822: Public Lands and Weird Headlines | MeatEater Radio Live!

Douglas Brinkley's "Wilderness Warrior: Theodore Roosevelt and the Crusade for America" explores Roosevelt's profound impact on American conservation. The biography details Roosevelt's efforts to establish national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges, protecting millions of acres of wilderness. It examines his deep connection to nature and his belief in the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations. Brinkley illustrates how Roosevelt's passion for the outdoors shaped his policies and his vision for America. The book highlights Roosevelt's lasting legacy as a champion of conservation and environmental stewardship, solidifying his place as a key figure in American history.

Candice Millard's "The River of Doubt" recounts Theodore Roosevelt's perilous journey down the uncharted River of Doubt in the Amazon. The book details the physical and mental hardships faced by Roosevelt and his team, highlighting their resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Millard masterfully weaves together historical accounts, personal diaries, and scientific research to create a gripping narrative. The expedition's challenges and near-death experiences underscore Roosevelt's adventurous spirit and his ability to overcome obstacles. The book offers a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in Roosevelt's life and the exploration of the Amazon.

Theodore Rex is the second volume of Edmund Morris's trilogy on the life of Theodore Roosevelt. It chronicles Roosevelt's two terms as President, from his assumption of power after President McKinley's assassination to his departure from office in 1909. The book details his energetic and reform-minded presidency, including his trust-busting initiatives, labor relations, conservation efforts, the construction of the Panama Canal, and his role in ending the Russo-Japanese War, for which he won the Nobel Peace Prize. Morris portrays Roosevelt as a dynamic leader who balanced his impulsiveness with pragmatism and significantly reshaped the office of the presidency to meet the needs of the new century.

The novella tells the story of Santiago, an old Cuban fisherman who has gone 84 days without catching a fish. Determined to break his unlucky streak, Santiago ventures far into the Gulf Stream, where he hooks a giant marlin. Over the course of three days, he battles the marlin, showing respect and admiration for the fish. Despite eventually killing the marlin, Santiago's catch is devoured by sharks on his journey back to shore. The story highlights Santiago's endurance, his deep connection with nature, and the themes of struggle, dignity, and the indomitable human spirit.