Final answer:
Theodore Roosevelt believed in a racial hierarchy and thought that inferior races could improve their status by hard work, but he was cautious and did not actively support legislation for racial equality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Although Theodore Roosevelt believed in racial hierarchy, with white men at the top of the social order, he also felt that members of what he considered inferior races could raise their social status through hard work. As a result, he was known for inviting numerous African American leaders to the White House. Despite this, he did not support actions such as legislation to increase equality for African Americans.
Roosevelt was known for his limited support of civil rights, though his interactions with African Americans were mixed. He supported a few African Americans like Booker T. Washington, who believed in uplifting African Americans through hard work and practical skills; he felt this economic improvement would eventually lead to equality. However, Roosevelt's approach to civil rights was cautious and limited, and he did not endorse sweeping reforms to achieve racial equality.