Book: The Rough Riders

Introduction
"The Rough Riders" is a memoir composed by Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, released in 1899. The book chronicles the experiences of Roosevelt and his volunteer cavalry program, referred to as the Rough Riders, during the Spanish-American War. The memoir provides a distinct insight into the character of the future president, in addition to an in-depth account of the Rough Riders' bravery and camaraderie in the face of adversity.

Formation of the Rough Riders
In the very first part of the book, Roosevelt information the development of the Rough Riders, a varied group of males drawn from various backgrounds and occupations. Amongst them were cowboys, Native Americans, college professional athletes, and even aristocrats. Roosevelt, who was then Assistant Secretary of the Navy, at first secured authorization from President William McKinley to raise a volunteer force. He then relinquished his position in the navy to sign up with the regiment in the field as its second in command.

The Rough Riders trained in San Antonio, Texas, prior to being sent to Tampa, Florida, to embark for Cuba. The training was extreme, focusing on horsemanship, marksmanship, and discipline. The routine quickly developed a strong bond, with the males dealing with one another not as aristocrats and citizens, however as equals.

Arrival in Cuba
Upon arrival in Cuba, the Rough Riders dealt with numerous challenges, including inadequate products and poor living conditions. They also faced substantial logistical difficulties due to the lack of horses and mules, requiring the males to bring their products while marching through rugged terrain.

Roosevelt paints a brilliant image of the Cuban countryside, with its thick jungles, swamps and treacherous routes. In spite of these difficulties, the Rough Riders maintained high spirits, excitedly awaiting their chance for action.

The Battle of Las Guasimas
Their first taste of fight came at the Battle of Las Guasimas on June 24, 1898. The Rough Riders, together with other American forces, dealt with a well-entrenched Spanish force in the dense jungles of southeastern Cuba. The battle was strong, and the Rough Riders differentiated themselves through their aggressive methods and durability under fire. Roosevelt's vibrant descriptions of the battle emphasize the bravery and determination of the guys as they fought together with one another.

San Juan Hill and Kettle Hill Battles
The most popular action of the Rough Riders occurred during the battles of San Juan Hill and Kettle Hill on July 1, 1898. These fights became part of the bigger effort to capture the strategic city of Santiago. The Rough Riders battled along with other American systems, charging uphill against heavily fortified Spanish positions.

At Kettle Hill, Colonel Teddy Roosevelt led the charge personally, prompting his males forward under heavy fire. The Rough Riders effectively took the hill and offered much-needed assistance for the subsequent capture of San Juan Hill. Roosevelt's descriptions of these fights are both thrilling and sobering, as he states the courage and sacrifice of the men under his command.

Aftermath and Return Home
Following the capture of Santiago, the Rough Riders dealt with a break out of malaria, yellow fever, and other tropical illness. Much of the guys fell ill, with some even succumbing to the illnesses. The circumstance got worse due to minimal medical materials and bad sanitary conditions.

In August 1898, the Rough Riders, together with the remainder of the American forces, returned to the United States. They were welcomed as heroes, with their exploits commonly celebrated by the American public. In his account, Roosevelt pays tribute to the bravery, perseverance, and sociability of his fellow Rough Riders.

Conclusion
"The Rough Riders" is an interesting account of the experiences of a diverse group of guys under extraordinary circumstances. The book provides an unique insight into the character of then future president Theodore Roosevelt, exposing his qualities as a strong leader and an eager observer of the human condition. Furthermore, the book functions as a testament to the valor and determination of the Rough Riders, who conquered adversity and displayed amazing courage in the face of risk.