'Nine-tenths of wisdom'

 

I am a part of everything that I have read.” – Theodore Roosevelt

Born in New York on Oct. 27, 1858 Roosevelt was a statesman, explorer, soldier, naturalist, reformer and the 26^th President of the United States.  He played a major role in the development of the country’s national parks, monuments and history and also was a multi-book bestselling author.  Much of his writing success, in fact, preceded his time in politics. 

 

The author of 18 books on topics ranging from foreign policy to the importance of the national park system he also was a voracious reader, consuming up to 7 books each and every week of his adult life.  Among his favorites were books of poetry.  U.S. Poet Laureate Robert Frost once said of Roosevelt “(He) was our kind. He quoted poetry to me. He knew poetry.”

 

From his acclaimed autobiography The Rough Riders to his book History of the Naval War of 1812 (still taught in naval war classes), his writings covered everything from The Duties of American Citizenship to Ranch Life and the Hunting Trail – topics he both wrote about and lived.  He also served as editor of The Outlook magazine, where he had weekly access to a large, educated national audience. 

 

In the process, his thoughtful writings and wise editorial decisions played a key role in protecting some of our nation’s most valuable natural sites and resources.

 

“Nobody cares how much you know,” Roosevelt said, “until they know how much you care.   Nine-tenths of wisdom is being wise in time.”