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Background
Theodore Roosevelt, who left his mark on so many facets of American life, also changed its language: his use of the adjective “bully” as an exclamation of commendation is the most singular example of his linguistic influence. Like Harding’s “normalcy” and Kennedy’s “vigor," the phrase with which Roosevelt begins this letter, “Bully for you” will forever be emblematic of his presidency.
Typed Letter Signed, as President, 1 page, quarto, The White House, Washington, D.C., September 27, 1907. To Benjamin Ide Wheeler, President, University of California, Berkeley.
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THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
September 27, 1907.
Dear President Wheeler:
Bully for you. I wish we had you as Senator from a good many different States! I guess there is nothing for me to bother myself any more about in this particular matter.
Sincerely yours,
Theodore Roosevelt [in manuscript]
President Benjamin Ide Wheeler,
University of California,
Berkeley, California.
WASHINGTON
September 27, 1907.
Dear President Wheeler:
Bully for you. I wish we had you as Senator from a good many different States! I guess there is nothing for me to bother myself any more about in this particular matter.
Sincerely yours,
Theodore Roosevelt [in manuscript]
President Benjamin Ide Wheeler,
University of California,
Berkeley, California.