The election of 1912 was primarily a competition between three of the four candidates. It was a close battle between Progressive candidates. In one corner stands Theodore Roosevelt, running for what would technically be his third term. In another corner stands William Howard Taft, also trying to continue into his second term. In the last corner of this competition triangle is Woodrow Wilson. Theodore Roosevelt became the youngest president when President William McKinley was assassinated, and Roosevelt (McKinley's Vice President) took over. Eric Foner describes Roosevelt as an "impetuous, energetic individual with a penchant for what he called the "strenuous life" of manly adventure " (705). He believed that the president should be "an honest broker in labor disputes, rather than automatically siding with employers"" (706). He believed in big government and its role to provide for the people and adapt its policies according to needs. He also thought that it was the president's duty to enforce reform. It was also under Roosevelt that conservation became a federal policy. His concern of the well-being of the people led to the passing of the Pure Food and Drug Act. It constituted a federal agency to manage the quality and labeling of foods and drugs. Additionally, when United Mine Workers went on strike for better pay and less hours, Roosevelt was able to stop and satisfy their needs. Roosevelt became model president for the twentieth century because of his consistent engagement in domestic affairs.
Other than supporting his people, President Roosevelt also wanted to expand the influence of the Democracy of the United States. The Monroe Doctrine was invoked by President Roosevelt, which allowed the United States to break out of isolationism and intervene in foreign affairs. He even went as far to act vigorously in foreign affairs with or without the support of Congress. However, this could only be done with a strong military force, so he constituted a more capable and impeccable defense.
After the rivalry that heated up between France and Great Britain right from the Seven Year war, France and Britain signed a liberal trade agreement called the Cobden-Chevalier Treaty of 1960, which as a result lowered tariff barriers between both nations. ...
