[Abridged] Presidential Histories 26.D.) Teddy Roosevelt, his cabinet, and a doomed bromance with William Howard Taft; an interview with Lindsay Chervinsky
Apr 18, 2022
Join presidential historian Lindsay Chervinsky as she unpacks the intriguing dynamics of Theodore Roosevelt's presidency. Learn about Roosevelt's strategic approach to his cabinet and how he navigated complex relationships with figures like Elihu Root. Discover the rollercoaster of his friendship with William Howard Taft, from their early alliance to a bitter split that impacted the 1912 election. Chervinsky also shares leadership lessons from their contrasting styles, showcasing the delicate balance between charisma and methodical governance.
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Cabinets Make Or Break Presidencies
- Cabinets are the turning point between successful administrations and catastrophic failures.
- Presidents who manage big egos and agendas well gain a major governing advantage.
People Trump Offices In Cabinets
- Retaining a predecessor's cabinet sacrifices the president-as-person for institutional continuity.
- John Adams learned this backfired because secretaries follow the person more than the office.
Roosevelt Used An Editor To Keep The Cabinet
- Roosevelt rushed to Buffalo after McKinley's death and faced a cabinet that distrusted him.
- He used newspaper editor Herman Kolstad to secure promises from McKinley's secretaries to stay temporarily.
