Theodore Roosevelt, initially seen as an unlikely president, overcame severe asthma and personal tragedies to become a prominent political figure. His early life was marked by athletic pursuits and personal loss, which shaped his character. Roosevelt's political career accelerated in the 1890s, leading to significant influence in the US Navy and participation in the Spanish-American War with the Rough Riders. His national fame propelled him to the governorship of New York and eventually the vice presidency. Following President McKinley's assassination, Roosevelt became the youngest US president at 42, marking a significant turning point in his career.

Why was Theodore Roosevelt chosen as McKinley's vice-presidential candidate?

• To promote him to a higher office

• To remove him from New York state politics

• To leverage his military experience

• To gain his support for McKinley's policies

What activities did Roosevelt take up to overcome his asthma?

• Swimming and cycling

• Weight lifting and boxing

• Skiing and snowboarding

• Yoga and meditation

What significant personal loss did Roosevelt experience in 1884?

• The death of his father

• The loss of his political career

• The loss of his wealth

• The death of his mother and first wife

What role did Roosevelt hold in the US Navy before the Spanish-American War?

• Chief of Naval Operations

• Secretary of the Navy

• Assistant Secretary of the US Navy

• Commander of the Pacific Fleet

What was the Rough Riders' composition during the Spanish-American War?

• A mix of wealthy Easterners and Western cowboys

• Mostly Western cowboys

• Exclusively New York state residents

• Primarily military veterans

What event catapulted Roosevelt into the national spotlight?

• His marriage to his second wife

• His role in the Spanish-American War

• His appointment as assistant secretary of the Navy

• His election as governor of New York

Why did Mark Hanna oppose Roosevelt's vice-presidential nomination?

• He wanted another candidate

• He feared Roosevelt's potential presidency

• He thought Roosevelt was too inexperienced

• He believed Roosevelt was too young

What was the immediate cause of President McKinley's death?

• A heart attack

• A stroke

• A car accident

• Gangrene poisoning his blood

At what age did Theodore Roosevelt become the President of the United States?

• 39

• 42

• 45

• 50

What was Roosevelt's initial plan after accepting the vice-presidency?

• To retire from politics

• To run for president in 1904

• To travel abroad

• To focus on state politics