What party did Roosevelt form in 1912, and what was its impact on the election?

• A. The Progressive Party (Bull Moose Party); it split the Republican vote and helped Wilson win
• B. The Democratic Party; it won the presidency
• C. The Republican Party; it solidified its hold
• D. The Socialist Party; it drew votes from both

Answer: (A)

Roosevelt formed the Progressive Party in 1912, often called the Bull Moose Party. This new party drew a large portion of disaffected Republicans away from Taft, creating a split in the Republican vote. With Taft and Roosevelt dividing the Republican base, Woodrow Wilson, the Democrat, could win the presidency even though Roosevelt was a strong contender. The result shows how a strong third-party challenge can change an election by weakening one major party and allowing another to prevail.