The Rough Riders: Theodore Roosevelt’s Volunteer Cavalry in the Spanish-American War – History Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Engage your students with the fascinating story of The Rough Riders—the volunteer cavalry regiment led by Theodore Roosevelt during the Spanish-American War. This worksheet dives into the Rough Riders' iconic role in the Battle of San Juan Hill, a pivotal moment that secured U.S. victory and catapulted Roosevelt to national fame.

This resource not only highlights the bravery and determination of the Rough Riders but also encourages students to take a critical look at the broader context of U.S. intervention in Cuba, the contributions of Cuban fighters and Buffalo Soldiers, and the long-term effects of U.S. imperialism in the region.

What’s Included:

• Multiple-choice questions to test students' comprehension of the Rough Riders' objectives and role in the Spanish-American War.
• Matching exercises to reinforce key figures, events, and terms.
• Fill-in-the-blank activities to ensure retention of essential details.
• Short-answer questions to encourage students to think critically about the glorification of military action and the broader impact of U.S. involvement in Cuba.
• Primary source analysis of an excerpt from Theodore Roosevelt’s account of the Battle of San Juan Hill, fostering discussion on how history is remembered and portrayed.

This reading comprehension worksheet is a great tool for deeper learning and is ideal for sparking classroom discussions. Whether used for homework, class assignments, or sub plans, it will captivate your students and enhance their understanding of this key moment in U.S. history.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the role of the Rough Riders in the Spanish-American War and how the Battle of San Juan Hill became a defining moment in U.S. military history.
• Analyze the glorification of military action in U.S. history and consider the contributions of other groups involved in the war, such as Cuban rebels and the Buffalo Soldiers.
• Evaluate the broader impact of U.S. intervention in Cuba and the long-term consequences of the war.

Common Core Standards:

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source and provide an accurate summary.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Courses This Resource Is Perfect For:

• U.S. History (High School)
• AP U.S. History
• Social Studies (Grades 9-12)

This worksheet encourages critical thinking and historical analysis, making it a valuable resource for in-depth learning. It’s also a perfect sub plan that keeps students engaged and thinking.

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