Grab your coffee and let’s take a clear-eyed look at the moments that shaped U.S. history. We’re not just talking about the headlines—you’ll get the music people were listening to, the clothes they wore, and the food that was on their tables. These cultural snapshots provide context to the political decisions and events, helping you understand what was happening in the world around them.

So sip your brew, and let’s dive into the history and culture that made these moments what they are.

Theodore Roosevelt’s Failed Third Party Run (1912)

History: In 1912, after leaving the presidency, Theodore Roosevelt returned to politics by forming the Progressive Party (also known as the "Bull Moose Party") after a split with the Republican Party. He ran on a platform of social reform, advocating for women’s suffrage, labor rights, and regulation of corporations. Though Roosevelt garnered more votes than Republican incumbent William Howard Taft, the divided Republican vote allowed Democrat Woodrow Wilson to secure the presidency.

This third-party run remains one of the most significant in U.S. political history and set a high-water mark for future third-party candidates. Roosevelt’s campaign, while unsuccessful, raised awareness of progressive reforms that would later be implemented in the years to come.

Pop Culture:

🎶 Music: "Alexander’s Ragtime Band" by Irving Berlin was one of the most popular songs of 1911-1912, reflecting the energetic, upbeat tone of Ragtime music that matched Roosevelt’s dynamic political comeback.

🍽 Food: Oysters Rockefeller was a gourmet dish that gained immense popularity during this period, reflecting the high society dinners and political banquets Roosevelt was known to attend.

👔 Fashion (Men): Three-piece suits with high-waisted trousers were in vogue, symbolizing power and sophistication. Roosevelt was often seen in such attire, representing the era’s elite.

👗 Fashion (Women): Gibson girl blouses with long skirts were fashionable for women, representing elegance and a hint of the increasing freedoms women were beginning to enjoy.