Feedback
What do you think about us?
Your name
Your email
Message
Explore the life of Harry S. Truman, from his humble beginnings to his presidency. Learn about his leadership during WWII, the use of atomic bombs, the Cold War's onset, and his Fair Deal domestic policies. Truman's legacy includes the Marshall Plan, NATO, and civil rights advancements.
Show More
Harry S. Truman was born on a farm in Missouri and grew up in a close-knit family
Various Jobs
Before his political career, Truman worked in various jobs, including as a timekeeper and a farmer
Military Service
Truman served in World War I and was deeply committed to public service
Truman's political career began under the mentorship of the Pendergast political machine, leading to his election as a county judge and U.S. Senator
Truman became the 33rd President of the United States after the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt
Final Stages of the War
Truman oversaw the final stages of World War II, including the Potsdam Conference and the decision to use atomic bombs against Japan
International Relations
Truman signed the United Nations Charter and set the stage for a new era in international relations
Transition to Peacetime Economy
Truman faced the challenge of transitioning the U.S. to a peacetime economy after World War II
Domestic Policies
Truman sought to extend the New Deal with his Fair Deal proposals, but faced opposition from Congress
Cold War
The Cold War began to take shape during Truman's presidency, with the U.S. and Soviet Union emerging as superpowers with conflicting ideologies
Formation of NATO
Truman played a key role in the formation of NATO, a cornerstone of his foreign policy
Korean War
Truman's decision to intervene in the Korean War was a significant application of the containment policy
Fair Deal
Truman's Fair Deal aimed to improve social welfare and extend civil rights, but faced opposition from Congress
Red Scare
Truman's administration was marked by the Red Scare and the rise of McCarthyism
Despite controversies, Truman's presidency was characterized by decisive leadership during a pivotal era in American and world history