In The Rough Riders, Theodore Roosevelt recounts his experiences with the First United States Volunteer Cavalry during the Spanish-American War of 1898. Drawing on his own firsthand experiences, Roosevelt describes the formation, training, and deployment of the regiment, which brought together cowboys, ranchers, athletes, adventurers, and men from across the United States.

The narrative follows the regiment from its organization and training through its campaigns in Cuba, including the fighting around Las Guasimas and the famous assault on San Juan Hill. Roosevelt describes the challenges of military life, the confusion and hardship of combat, and the courage and determination of the men who served alongside him.

Part memoir and part military history, The Rough Riders provides a firsthand account of one of the most famous American volunteer units of the Spanish-American War. Roosevelt also reflects on leadership, discipline, friendship, courage, and the experiences that shaped the regiment during its brief but memorable campaign.