Ranking U.S. Presidents

We are back with Theodore Roosevelt! This time we are discussing his two terms as President. During his time, he radically expanded the power of the office...but did he do a good job? How effective was he? And...where does the Rough Rider rank?

It's the man, the myth, the legend, ole Teddy Rough Rider Roosevelt himself! Today we are looking at the personality, beliefs and early career of Theodore Roosevelt before he became President. Because for the fourth member of Mt. Rushmore, we are going to need two parts to cover his story!

Say goodbye to the 19th century, it's the 20th century folks and we have our first modern president: William McKinley. Although often remembered as the prequel to Theodore Roosevelt, he left his mark as well with labor policies and the Spanish American War and the birth of American imperialism. He was also assassinated, the second to last American president in history to suffer such a fate.

Let's find out more about his presidency and where he ranks!

It's the president who came between two Clevelands! He's probably the least well known of any president, which is a real shame considering all he accomplished. One law he passed is still in effect today!

But...where does this Hoosier rank? Find out!

It's Big Steve time. We are talking about Grover Cleveland of course, the only president to serve two non consecutive terms. But did he deserve those terms? And where does he rank?

Arthur was the kingpin of the New York political machine...but then became known as an anticorruption champion in the White House. This little-known president was also around for one of the most influential immigration bills in American history.

So...where does he rank?

This president led a fascinating life. Unfortunately his time in office was cut short by an assassin's bullet. Let's explore the life of death of America's second president to be assassinated...and see where he ranks.

Known as his Fraudulency or Rutherfraud, this president came to power during the most contested election in American history. He was the last Reconstruction era President and the first of the Gilded Age. He had to handle corruption, racism and a general strike. How did he handle it? Well....

Today we have a very interesting president, another general everyone knows by name, but usually knows nothing about his presidency. We are talking about Ulysses S. Grant, the man who beat the Confederacy. But can he handle the Presidency? We shall see.

Last week we had Lincoln...now we have...Andrew Johnson, America's "plebian president." Can this VP take up the mantle of Lincoln and handle reconstruction of the defeated southern states? Find out in this week's episode.