Teddy Roosevelt’s Rough Riders connection to Tempe Normal School

More from this show

Teddy Roosevelt’s famed Rough Riders were an all-volunteer cavalry that helped end the Spanish-American War of 1898 with a decisive victory in The Battle of San Juan Hill. Many of the Rough Riders were from the territory of Arizona, and seven of them were affiliated with Tempe Normal School, now known as Arizona State University. Their bravery and connection to Roosevelt was cited as a contributing factor to Arizona’s path to statehood. We hear more about the Rough Riders’ connection to Tempe Normal School from university archivist Rob Spindler.

Rob Spindler

Fountain Hills with text reading: Food Festival Saturday, April 11, 2026, Fountain Hills, Arizona
April 11

Join us for the We-Ko-Pa ‘Check, Please! Arizona’ Food Festival

Dr. Maurice Crandall
aired March 27

Who are Arizona’s founding fathers?

The Arizona PBS logo and text reading: Your Arizona Connection Starts Here

Celebrating Arizona PBS’ 65th Anniversary

The cast of Downton Abbey in Character
aired March 8

Stream ‘Downton Abbey’ with Arizona PBS Passport

Subscribe to Arizona PBS Newsletters

Stay connected with Arizona PBS!

Explore stories, programs, and updates you care about.

Sign up for one, or ALL, of our weekly newsletters today.