When did Teddy Roosevelt say, “...it takes more than that to kill a Bull Moose”?
Teddy Roosevelt said these words giving a speech after being shot by an assailant.
On October 14, 1912, Presidential candidate Roosevelt was campaigning in Milwaukee, WI. He was shot by an assailant when he stood from the seat of his automobile to wave at the crowds. The shot landed squarely in Roosevelt’s chest.
Teddy’s long-winded speeches saved his life. The bullet traveled through a 50 page copy of his prepared speech and the steel eyeglasses he carried in the same pocket, lodging in his chest. The bullet was slowed enough not to reach his lungs or heart, which Teddy deduced from the absence of blood when he spoke or coughed.
The assailant, John Schrank, an unemployed salon keeper born in the “Kingdom of Bavaria”, was tackled and quickly taken away. He had been stalking Roosevelt for weeks. Documents found on Schrank reflected that he had a dream, advised by a ghost of William McKinley suggesting that he avenge his death, while pointing to a picture of Teddy. He was found legally insane, institutionalized until his death in 1943.
Teddy, refused to go to the hospital, instead gave his speech. “I don’t know whether you fully understand that I have just been shot; but it takes more than that to kill a Bull Moose.” He spoke for at least 55 more minutes though some reports say 90 minutes, still wearing his blood-soaked shirt. Doctors later examined him and decided it was safer to leave the bullet in his chest. It remained there for the remainder of his life.
More Info:
www.nps.gov
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