Why did Roosevelt consider himself more important than Rockefeller or Morgan?

• A. He had more wealth than them
• B. He was elected by the public
• C. He had more control over the economy
• D. He was a better businessman

Answer: (B)

Roosevelt's belief in his own importance compared to Rockefeller or Morgan primarily stemmed from the fact that he was elected by the public. Unlike Rockefeller and Morgan, who amassed their influence and power through wealth and business success, Roosevelt held a position that was granted to him through a democratic process. This electoral mandate gave him a different kind of legitimacy and authority, as he was accountable to the voters and had the power to enact policies that affected the lives of many citizens. His role as a public leader placed him in a unique position where he could challenge the business magnates on issues like trust regulation and workers' rights, framing his influence as serving the greater good rather than individual profit.

In this context, his status as an elected official contrasted with the private, self-made legacies of Rockefeller and Morgan, reinforcing the notion that his public service role made him a more significant figure in the eyes of the populace.