
The Great Day in My Life: Theodore Roosevelt, the Charge at San Juan Hill, and Courage
45 min
Walk-In-The-Shoes Questions
As you read, imagine you are the protagonist.
- What challenges are you facing?
 - What fears or concerns might you have?
 - What may prevent you from acting in the way you ought?
 
Observation Questions
- What contributions did Theodore Roosevelt and the other American soldiers make to the advancement of freedom through their demonstration of courage in Cuba?
 - In what ways did Roosevelt’s courage contribute to his ability to lead his men in Cuba?
 
Discussion Questions
Discuss the following questions with your students.
- What is the historical context of the narrative?
 - What historical circumstances presented a challenge to the protagonist?
 - How and why did the individual exhibit a moral and/or civic virtue in facing and overcoming the challenge?
 - How did the exercise of the virtue benefit civil society?
 - How might exercise of the virtue benefit the protagonist?
 - What might the exercise of the virtue cost the protagonist?
 - Would you react the same under similar circumstances? Why or why not?
 - How can you act similarly in your own life? What obstacles must you overcome in order to do so?
 
- Students will evaluate Theodore Roosevelt’s courage during the Rough Riders’ battles in Cuba.
 - Students will analyze how courageous acts can promote progress.
 - Students will apply their knowledge of courage to their own lives.