Introduction
Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson were the representatives of the Progressive Era when major shifts in the USA took place. The two presidents managed to contribute to the development of the country in different ways. Roosevelt was a former war hero who was ready to make quick decisions while Wilson was a more careful decision-maker who tried to consider all possible facets of a problem. The presidents made numerous effective decisions that helped the country evolve into the superpower.
Main body
Both presidents tried to address social issues, which led to the improvement of thousands of underprivileged people’s working conditions. Roosevelt ensured all Americans’ access to open spaces and recreational zones, while Wilson managed to increase people’s access to education. Wilson banned child labor and introduced maximum working hours for some groups of workers. Both presidents aimed at reducing corporations’ influence and making them comply with rather strict rules. As for foreign policy, Roosevelt wished to make the USA a leading power in the international arena. Wilson tried to remain focused on domestic issues. Roosevelt was ready to participate in wars and conflicts (for example, the country participated in the war in Spain under his presidency). Wilson was reluctant to participate in the First World War, although the USA had to enter the war.
Conclusion
All in all, the two presidents had very different personalities, but they were both progressive. Wilson can be even regarded as a more progressive president as he made unprecedented steps to make the economic development of the country more sustainable and appropriate for further advancements. Both men had quite different philosophies as Roosevelt was a military man while Wilson was a scholar. However, both of them managed to contribute greatly to the development of the USA and its empowerment.