Imagine a presidential election season beginning with a series of hotly-contested primaries, followed by an intense debate over the role and responsibilities of the federal government. Modern audiences might be interested to know that’s exactly what happened one hundred years ago. It was 1912, and former President Theodore Roosevelt came out of retirement to challenge incumbent William Howard Taft for the keys to the White House. Not only did he run against Taft, Roosevelt split from the ranks of the Republicans to form a new political party.
Roosevelt’s Progressive (or “Bull Moose”) Party went on to become the most successful third party in the history of the United States and, according to University of Virginia professor Sidney M. Milkis, it not only set the agenda for the 1912 election, but also inspired fundamental changes in the political landscape. Professor Milkis, author of the book Theodore Roosevelt, the Progressive Party Campaign, and the Transformation of American Democracy, will be in Buffalo later this month to discuss the dramatic presidential race of 1912 and the lasting impact of Roosevelt’s Bull Moose Party.
Professor Milkis will be at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site (641 Delaware Avenue) for a lecture beginning at 7 p.m. on Monday, September 24th. His remarks will be followed by an opportunity for questions and discussion. The event costs $5 per person, which is payable at the door. However, space is limited and reservations are encouraged (call 716-884-0095 or e-mail: rsvp@trsite.org). Professor Milkis will also be available to sign copies of his book, which can be purchased in the museum’s shop.
The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site is presenting this event in collaboration with The Association for a Buffalo Presidential Center. It is being made possible by funding from the New York Council for the Humanities and the Monroe D. Ray Chapter of the American Political Items Collectors.
Get Connected: Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site, 716.884.0095