Harry S. Truman

Early Life and Childhood

Harry S. Truman was the 33rd President of the United States who was a member of the Democratic Party as well as a former senator from Missouri. He came to power as President after the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt and immediately faced several adversities during his term as President.

Truman was born in Lamar, Missouri in 1884 to John Anderson Truman and Martha Ellen. His middle name was “S” in honor of his grandfathers Anderson Shipp Truman and Solomon Young. A young Truman spent his early years in a farming community.

Educational Setbacks and Early Workforce Experience

Truman was a bright student who had dreams of joining the U.S. military academy at West Point but his dreams were shattered due to his poor eyesight. After graduating from high school, Truman stepped into the workforce as his family couldn’t afford his further education.

Military Service During World War I

Harry S. Truman enlisted in the Missouri National Guard during World War I and was sent to France where he was part of several campaigns. His dedication and competence saw him rise through the ranks to become captain. After the conclusion of the World War I, Truman joined the reserves and eventually became colonel.

Marriage and Early Career Struggles

After returning from the war in 1919, Truman married his childhood friend Mary Margaret Truman. The couple had one child together named Mary Margaret who became a professional singer and author. After his marriage, Truman opened up a clothing store in Kansas City but this venture was short-lived due to the economic downturn that would plague the nation.

Beginning of a Political Career

Harry S. Truman started his political career as a county judge in Jackson County, Missouri in 1922. Although his duties were more administrative than judicial, he made a name for himself and was known for his integrity and efficient management of county affairs.

Rise to the U.S. Senate

Truman was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1934. During this time, he showcased support for President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal programs, which focused on rescuing the country from The Great Depression. He also formed the Truman Committee to investigate the National Defense Program, which saved American taxpayers millions of dollars.

Becoming Vice President and Assumption of the Presidency

Harry Truman became the Vice President of the United States under Franklin Roosevelt. However, his term as Vice President was short-lived due to the untimely death of Roosevelt. This resulted in Truman becoming the next U.S. President.

First Term as President: World War II and Key Decisions

Truman’s first term in the presidency was marked by monumental decisions. His first year saw the end of World War II. Truman was best known for his decision to drop the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan, thereby ending the war in the Pacific. His first term also oversaw the founding of the United Nations and the start of the Cold War. He implemented the Marshall Plan, which focused primarily on rebuilding Europe. He was also instrumental in establishing the Truman Doctrine and NATO to contain the spread of communism.

Second Term: Foreign Policy and Domestic Reforms

Truman’s second term as President was driven by foreign policy initiatives and domestic reforms. Although many of his proposals and ideas were blocked by Congress, he was still successful in implementing the Housing Act of 1949.

Korean War and the NATO Alliance

Truman also appointed Dwight Eisenhower as the first commander of NATO. He also famously sent American troops to fight the Korean War against the communist invasion.

Legacy and Death

Truman was unpopular when he left office, but over time historians have come to appreciate his courage and valor. He sadly passed away in 1972 at the age of 88.