Using the primary sources provided, class assigned readings and Live Lesson sessions, address the following prompt: Describe how two of the three Progressive Era Presidents viewed the role of the executive branch and be sure to reflect on the complexity of each president's views. Which president’s argument about the role of the executive branch is the most compelling?

Question

Answer the question as a thesis statement! Remember you are making a historic argument. Do not talk about yourself when you are writing an academic argument [DO NOT write “I think..” “I believe…”].
Thesis Statement: Your thesis statement is your concise answer to the prompt you chose in Step 1.
Thesis statements fall at the end of your introduction paragraph and give the reader a preview of your argument. It outlines what your argument will be about by including your 2 topics in order.
Do not talk about yourself when establishing your claim: Avoid “I think…” “I believe…” “It is my opinion…”Example: What caused the American Revolution?

The division between Great Britain and its American colonies was caused by political and economic tensions which led to the American Revolution.

Answer 1

During the Progressive Era, two of the three Presidents, Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson, had differing views on the role of the executive branch. Roosevelt believed in using the power of the presidency to actively shape and regulate society, advocating for a more assertive and interventionist government. In contrast, Wilson believed in a more restrained approach, concentrating on promoting small government and limited intervention in the economy. The complexity of Roosevelt's view lies in his emphasis on using executive power to protect the interests of the American people and promote social reform, while also expanding the influence of the presidency beyond traditional limits. On the other hand, Wilson's view is complex in its focus on maintaining a balance between government involvement and individual freedom, emphasizing the importance of self-governance and decentralized authority. Ultimately, Roosevelt's argument about the role of the executive branch is the most compelling, as his willingness to use presidential power to address social and economic issues demonstrates a bold and proactive approach to governance.