Address of President Roosevelt at Keokuk, Iowa, October 1, 1907

A presidential address to Iowans argues that the national government must supervise large interstate corporations to ensure fairness and justice. It calls for wise laws and resolute enforcement to prevent rule by plutocracy or by mob, preserving orderly liberty. The speaker stresses that citizens must cultivate self-mastery and moral vigilance so freedom endures, and that public responsibility parallels private conduct. He rejects protecting wealthy wrongdoers for the sake of short-term business calm and affirms support for both labor and business so long as actions remain lawful. The address urges democratic conditions that give individuals a fair start while punishing dishonest accumulation of wealth.