Story Synopsis: The Theodore Roosevelt-Smithsonian Expedition between 1909 and 1910 was the most publicized scientific expedition in history. With a team of over 250 East Africa porters and conservationists, Roosevelt collected over 11,000 animals and more than 5,000 plants. It would take more than ten years to catalogue the findings.

The specimens are still in Washington, DC. But as Roosevelt travelled throughout Kenya and Uganda, his perception of African societies and cultures were permanently altered. He was inspired by the resiliency of coastal Kenyans in the face of Arab slavery. In central and western Kenya, he learned Swahili words for African animals and was amazed by the region's complex societies.

Once in Uganda, Roosevelt was shocked by the power and deep history of Uganda's kingdoms, which were hundreds of years older than the United States.
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Ankole herders introduced him to the vital role that cattle had played in the region's economy. In Bunyoro, he marveled at the ecosystem of Kabalega National Park, which possesses the world's most powerful waterfall. In Ajai and northern Uganda, he learned from local chiefs, while attending culturalevents including a funeral.

After leaving East Africa, Roosevelt would abandon his own political party to launch the largest three-party election in American history, focusing on the rights of African Americans.

Roosevelt's vision for scientific discovery and racial progress had been given new life across Kenya and Uganda. One hundred and ten years later, these specimens continue to provide scientific data for habitat ecosystem restorations.