Harry S. Truman: Farewell Address
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"When Franklin Roosevelt died, I felt there must be a million men better qualified than I to take up the Presidential task. But the work was mine to do, and I had to do it. And I've tried to give it everything that was in me."-Harry S. Truman Delivered on January 15, 1953.
 Write a Review of Harry S. Truman: Farewell Address
 
johnny_n_usa, May 25, 2008
Reviewer: johnny_n_usa
This is a very interesting and enlightening speech. I wish all
Americans would read it and think about the history lessons that Truman learned and applied.
Harry Truman, was considered by many to be an accidental president, a perhaps too common man, a most unlikely national leader, plucked into the vice presidency and later the presidency. He was though, a man of intense personal integrity and conviction.
As I listened to this speech today and reflected back on the past few decades of world events I have many thoughts to share.
- Truman sure spoke plainly, intelligently and insightfully.
- His words on appeasement and the lessons learned from history, especially post World War I provide more insight regarding United States actions in not only Korea but later ones in Viet Nam and the Middle East. Insights and lessons that our national press, academics, and current pop culture either don't grasp or ignore and explain away as aggression and economic imperialism. There is an ongoing international game of Risk / Chess with a changing set of serious players who will always be ready to exploit weakness and any opportunity for power and domination.
- Truman lists the accomplishments of his administration including the Marshall Plan, the UN,
the rebuilding of Japan, the transition from a War economy, Civil Rights initiatives, etc.
I wonder if in today's poisoned partisan political climate could anything like this impressive list be accomplished let alone in such a short time. Our national press and party oppositon leaders would be more concerned about the race and gender of the program leaders, of any scandalous behavior and who would get credit, than for any beneficial results. Just look at Iraq and how the NY Times, AP etc. are actually
working to undermine our effors there.
- He shows respect for the presidency above partisanship. I doubt Bess stole any silverware from the White House kitchen.
- He tells us about the need for unity and support for our elected leaders. See above.
- LearnOutLoud.com Product ID:
H021971
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