Question

Which of the following describes the Rough Riders?

A. They were a group of cavalry officers who fought in the Indian Wars under George Custer.

B. They were an organization of journalists committed to supporting U.S. imperialism.

C. They were a collection of U.S. businessmen who took over Hawaii in the late 1890s.

D. They were a regiment of soldiers who fought under Theodore Roosevelt in the Spanish-American War.

Answer 1

The Rough Riders were a volunteer cavalry regiment led by Theodore Roosevelt in the Spanish-American War, known for their charge up San Juan Hill despite being largely dismounted. African-American troops significantly contributed to their success in battle.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Rough Riders were a regiment of volunteers, also known as the First United States Volunteer Cavalry, that fought under the leadership of Theodore Roosevelt during the Spanish-American War. This unique mix of soldiers included adventure-seeking college graduates and seasoned cowboys from the Southwest and aimed to represent a cross-section of American society.

Although originally formed as a cavalry unit, they ironically became known as "Wood's Weary Walkers" when they had to leave their horses behind due to lack of space on their transport ship to Cuba. In combat, the Rough Riders and Roosevelt became famous for their daring charge up San Juan Hill and Kettle Hill. However, it was the African American troops, often called 'Buffalo Soldiers' or 'Smoked Yankees', who played a significant role in the battles, fighting side by side with Roosevelt's men and earning numerous awards for their bravery and tactical support.