In the first decade of the 20th century the United States was on the threshold of international power. Since the Civil War America had grown enormously in wealth and strength. Now she was ready to translate this economic strength into world-wide influence. 

          To lead them in this vital decade, Americans were fortunate to possess a statesman who marvellously reflected many of their national virtues (and some of their shortcomings): President Theodore Roosevelt.

          A. E. Campbell describes the tumultous career of this remarkable man, and assesses its significance against the complex background of the American story in the half-century before the First World War.