An Autobiography · Chapter
VII: The War of America the Unready explained
Roosevelt recounts the lead-up to the Spanish-American War, focusing on the Navy Department's preparations, the selection of Dewey to command the Asiatic squadron, and the broader national failure to maintain military preparedness.
What happens
Roosevelt recounts the lead-up to the Spanish-American War, focusing on the Navy Department's preparations, the selection of Dewey to command the Asiatic squadron, and the broader national failure to maintain military preparedness. He criticizes the combination of bluster and weakness in American policy, describes the gradual improvement of the Navy, and reflects on the lessons learned from the war.
Themes in this chapter
Nationalism and American Identity
Roosevelt discusses the need for the United States to take its foreign duties seriously and to be prepared for war to avoid dishonor, linking national greatness to military readiness.
Courage and Vigor
He praises Dewey's fearless initiative and the qualities of the men who served under him at Santiago, contrasting them with the timid and unprepared.
Political Reform and Anti-Corruption
Roosevelt criticizes the 'foolish peace people' and politicians who kept the nation weak while engaging in bluster, advocating for a policy of righteous war over unrighteous peace.
Characters to notice
- Theodore Roosevelt
As Assistant Secretary of the Navy, he worked to prepare the Navy for war, advocated for Dewey's command, and reflects on the national lack of preparedness.
- Admiral Dewey
Roosevelt highlights Dewey's initiative in purchasing coal during a Chilean crisis, which led Roosevelt to support his appointment to command the Asiatic squadron.
- William McKinley
Mentioned as the President who was close to Senator Proctor and who ultimately approved Dewey's command.
- Congress
Criticized for passing denunciatory resolutions while keeping the nation militarily weak, and for the 'foolish peace people' and 'international tail-twisters' influencing policy.
- Sampson
Listed among the capable naval officers Roosevelt worked with in the Navy Department.
Key passages
“In a crisis, the man worth his salt is the man who meets the needs of the situation in whatever way is necessary.”
A capable person in an emergency does whatever is required to handle the situation.
Roosevelt uses Dewey's purchase of coal as an example of taking initiative without waiting for orders.
“We wished to enjoy the incompatible luxuries of an unbridled tongue and an unready hand.”
We wanted to speak aggressively while being unprepared to act, which is impossible to sustain.
Roosevelt criticizes the American tendency to bluster without military strength.
“I abhor unjust war. I abhor injustice and bullying by the strong at the expense of the weak, whether among nations or individuals. I abhor violence and bloodshed. I believe that war should never be resorted to when, or so long as, it is honorably possible to avoid it.”
I hate unjust war, bullying, and violence, and think war should only be a last resort to avoid dishonor.
Roosevelt clarifies his stance on war, advocating for preparedness to prevent conflict.