As a young boy, Theodore "Teedie" Roosevelt was small, had weak eyes, and frail muscles. But Teedie was also inquisitive, brave, and self-sufficient. Determined to overcome his childhood ailments, Teedie changed from a timid homebody into an adventurous man. He explored the Wild West, fought in the Spanish-American War, served as president of the United States, and helped build the Panama Canal.