American Experience Season 9 Episode 1 T. R.: the Story of Theodore Roosevelt (Part 1)

T. R.: The Story of Theodore Roosevelt (Part 1) is the first episode of the ninth season of American Experience. The episode delves into the remarkable life and career of Theodore Roosevelt, who served as the 26th President of the United States from 1901 to 1909. This episode tells the story of Roosevelt's early years, his rise to political power, his ambitious legislative agenda, and his struggles with personal tragedy.

The episode begins with a look at Roosevelt's childhood, including his privileged upbringing as a member of New York City's elite society. We learn about his love for nature, his passion for reading and writing, and his early political experiences as a member of the New York State Assembly. Through interviews with historians, biographers, and Roosevelt experts, we gain insight into the character and motivations of the young man who would one day become President.

As the episode progresses, we see Roosevelt's political career take off. He becomes a member of the United States Civil Service Commission, where he advocates for progressive reforms that aim to reduce political corruption and nepotism within government jobs. He also serves as a police commissioner in New York City, where he implements innovative policies to combat crime and improve public safety.

The episode follows Roosevelt's dramatic ascent to national prominence, beginning with his appointment as Assistant Secretary of the Navy under President McKinley. We see how his advocacy for a strong navy and his aggressive foreign policy helped to propel him into the national spotlight. And when McKinley is assassinated in 1901, we watch as Roosevelt becomes the youngest President in American history.

Throughout the episode, Roosevelt's personal life is also explored in detail. We see how his marriage to Alice Hathaway Lee – whom he adored – was cut short by her untimely death just two days after the birth of their daughter. We see how he struggled to cope with this loss, seeking solace in his love of nature and his work. And we learn about his controversial remarriage to Edith Kermit Carow, who would become an important partner in his political career.

As Part 1 of T. R.: The Story of Theodore Roosevelt draws to a close, we see Roosevelt at the height of his power. He is a charismatic and popular leader who is adored by many Americans. Yet we also see the beginning of the end of his presidency, as his progressive agenda leads to conflicts with conservative factions within his own party. As the episode ends, we are left with the sense that Roosevelt's story is far from over – and that his legacy as one of America's most important and influential Presidents is just beginning to take shape.