Teddy Roosevelt is one of the most colorful and fascinating figures in American history. The 26th President of the United States had a huge personality and left a legacy that we will study forever.

Here are 5 facts you might not know about the man, the myth, the legend.

1. He was a frail kid

Roosevelt was a sickly boy who often battled illness and asthma. On top of that, he was frail and not a strong physical presence. As a teen, Teddy hit the gym, taking up boxing, gymnastics, and weightlifting. He transformed into a powerful man who was dedicated to physical fitness for the rest of his life.

2. He tried his hand at ranching

Roosevelt loved wide open spaces and the untamed nature of the West. He went into business and operated two ranches. The ventures lost money, and by 1898 Roosevelt sold his shares in the properties.

3. He was an accomplished writer

In fact, after his Presidency, Roosevelt continued to write and supported himself financially by authoring books. His love of the outdoors was an interesting topic for him, and his titles included Hunting Trips of a Ranchman and Winning of the West.

4. He’s the youngest President in American history

John F. Kennedy became President when he was 43-years-old, Bill Clinton was 46, and Barack Obama was 47. Roosevelt? He was 42-years-old when he became President in 1901 after William McKinley was assassinated.

5. He was the first President to leave the country while in office

Roosevelt visited Panama in 1906 while serving as Commander in Chief. The Panama Canal was under construction at the time and Roosevelt wanted to see the project himself.

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