Your TR Source
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1908-10-20
Roosevelt, Theodore, 1858-1919
Cook, Theodore Andrea, 1867-1928
2025-10-23
Although President Roosevelt now understands why Theodore Andrea Cook wrote him, he does not wish to become involved in the controversy between the United States and Great Britain regarding the London Olympics.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1908-11-17
President Roosevelt sternly rebukes Theodore Andrea Cook, both for the offensive language in the letter he sent, and for the actions of the English officials in the 1908 Olympics. Roosevelt is especially angry about the disqualification of John C. Carpenter from the 400 meter run on what he believes are false accusations of fouling the English athlete Wyndham Halswelle. Conversely, in the marathon, the Italian Dorando Pietri was initially declared the winner over American Johnny Hayes, despite blatant violations of the rules. For the sake of maintaining good relations with England, Roosevelt does not wish for this letter to be made public, and has warned American athletes and managers not to openly criticize the officials. However, he wants it to be made clear that he does not approve of what happened.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1908-10-20