We read about Teddy Roosevelt's rise from governor of New York, to Vice President during McKinley's second term and then president at 42 years of age, the youngest in history, when McKinley was assassinated. We read why he became the inspiration for the teddy bear. We also read about the construction of the Panama Canal in the early 20th century and the meaning and symbolism behind Roosevelt's famous quote," speak softly and carry a big stick."