Harry S. Truman

Harry S. Truman was born on May 8, 1884.

John Vivian Truman, Harry Truman's brother, is born on April 25 in Harrisonville, Missouri.

The Truman family moves to a farm owned by Harry Truman's grandfather, Solomon Young, near present-day Grandview, Missouri.

On August 12, Harry Truman's sister, Mary Jane, is born. She will live to be 89 years old.

In 1890, Harry S. Truman's family moves to Independence, Missouri from their grandparent's farm in Grandview.

Harry Truman meets Bess Wallace for the first time at First Presbyterian Church's Sunday School when he was six years old and she was five. He was captivated by her beauty and remembered her as the most beautiful girl he had ever seen.

In January 1901, Harry Truman becomes seriously ill with diphtheria and is forced to drop out of the second grade at the Noland School. After starting to recover, he suffered a relapse and became paralyzed for perhaps a few months. His parents pushed him around in a baby carriage or laid him on the floor with a book to read. According to his sister, Mary Jane, it was during these months of immobility that he developed his lifelong love of reading.

In 1903, Harry Truman takes a job as a clerk for the National Bank of Commerce in Kansas City, Missouri, marking a significant step in his early career.

In 1906, Harry S. Truman moves to his grandparents' farm and takes over its operations until 1917.

In 1910, Harry Truman continues to help his parents and brother manage and operate the 600-acre family farm near Grandview, Missouri, demonstrating his commitment to his family's well-being.

In 1916, Harry Truman begins courting Bess Wallace, marking the start of their romantic relationship.

Truman's experience in the war transformed him and brought out his leadership qualities, which later supported his political career in Missouri.

On April 13, 1918, Harry S. Truman arrived in Brest, France, aboard the U.S.S. George Washington.

After the armistice, Truman's artillery battery returned to the United States, and his men presented him with a large loving cup.

Harry and Bess got married on June 28 at Trinity Episcopal in Independence, Missouri.

Truman is appointed as a major in the Field Artillery, Officers Reserve Corps in 1920.

In 1922, Harry S. Truman was elected as one of three judges of the Jackson County Court. His role was primarily administrative, and he gained recognition for his honesty and effective management of county affairs.

Due to financial hardship, Truman starts attending classes at the Kansas City School of Law, but he will not be able to finish the program.

Harry and Bess Truman welcome their daughter, Margaret, into the world on February 17th.

In 1926, Harry S. Truman was elected as the presiding judge of the Jackson County Court, marking a significant milestone in his political career.

In 1930, Harry S. Truman was reelected as the presiding judge of the Jackson County Court, demonstrating his sustained effectiveness and leadership in the role.

Harry Truman is elected to the U.S. Senate in 1934. In 1940, while Senator, Truman heads a committee to investigate wartime expenses and saves the federal government millions of dollars.

In 1940, Truman successfully retained his U.S. Senate seat after a hotly contested battle, which is considered a pivotal moment in his political journey.

Truman gained national prominence as chairman of the Senate Special Committee to Investigate the National Defense Program, which came to be called the Truman Committee.

In 1943, Senator Truman's leadership as chairman of the Truman Committee led to the exposure of fraud and mismanagement of military funds, earning him recognition with his first appearance on the cover of TIME Magazine.

President submitted a plan to Congress to reorganize the Bureau of Internal Revenue due to inefficiency and corruption. The plan aimed to replace politically appointed collectors with district commissioners under Civil Service, and it became effective on 15th March after Senate approval.

Truman conferred with Winston Churchill and other British and American officials in Washington regarding common issues in Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East.

Harry S Truman became the 33rd President of the United States in 1945 after the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. His presidency saw the end of World War II and the beginning of the Cold War.

On January 20, 1945, Harry S. Truman took the vice-presidential oath of office.

Harry S. Truman became the President of the United States on April 12, 1945, following the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

President Harry Truman delivers an address in San Francisco at the first United Nations Conference, emphasizing the importance of building a new world and respecting the eternal dignity of man.

On May 14, 1945, Harry S. Truman provided de facto recognition to the new state of Israel, marking a significant event in the history of Israel's establishment.

President Truman makes the decision to use the atomic bomb against Japan, leading to the end of World War II. This significant event had a profound impact on global history and the future of warfare.

Following the bombing of Hiroshima, President Truman ordered the dropping of a second atomic bomb on the city of Nagasaki, Japan, leading to further devastation and ultimately prompting the Japanese surrender. This event had a profound impact on the conclusion of World War II.

President Truman releases a letter discussing the report of the Anglo-American Committee of Inquiry and the recommendation to admit 100,000 refugees to Palestine.

President Truman presents Congress with his 21-point plan for Reconversion, outlining the post-war economic strategy.

The White House releases a statement advocating for a peaceful compromise between the British government and Palestine on the creation of Israel. It also urges nations to admit displaced persons as permanent residents.

Commerce Secretary Henry Wallace makes a critical speech in New York, specifically targeting US foreign policy towards the Soviet Union. Truman's approval of the language in a News Conference on the same day is noted.

Truman publicly requests the resignation of Commerce Secretary Henry Wallace, emphasizing that no member of the Executive branch should make public statements conflicting with established foreign policy.

Truman states that the immigration of 100,000 Jewish refugees into an area of Palestine must begin immediately, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

President Harry S. Truman appeared before Congress to request military aid for Greece and Turkey, framing the United States' involvement as an ideological conflict with the Soviet Union. He proclaimed the policy of supporting free peoples resisting subjugation by armed minorities or outside pressures.

President Truman's address marked a shift in how he portrayed the Soviet Union to the American public, emphasizing the conflict between irreconcilable ideologies and the need for global commitment to contain the threat. The speech prompted criticism from both liberals and conservatives in the American political spectrum.

President Truman signs the 'Truman Doctrine' which provided financial aid to Greece and Turkey, aiming to prevent the spread of communism in the region.

Harry S. Truman addressed a reunion of the 35th Army Division, emphasizing the obligation of US citizens to lead the peoples of the earth toward lasting peace.

Truman vetoed the Taft-Hartley Act, expressing concerns that it would lead to more government intervention in labor and cause more strikes, rather than contributing to industrial peace and economic stability.

On June 29, 1947, Harry S. Truman became the first president to address the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, emphasizing the importance of advancing civil rights.

President Truman pays his final respects to his mother at her funeral in Grandview, Missouri.

President Truman ratifies a peace treaty with Italy, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria, signaling the end of World War II and the establishment of peaceful relations with these countries.

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is established to gather and analyze intelligence information for the United States government.

A letter was sent from Susan Lester to President Harry S. Truman on December 6, 1947. The contents and significance of the letter are not specified in the provided information.

The President signs the Foreign Aid Act of 1947, providing emergency aid for Europe.

The President delivers a special message to Congress urging legislation to make the Marshall Plan effective by April 1, 1948.

The President signs a supplemental appropriations bill implementing aid for European countries.

President delivers the third annual State of the Union message to the Congress.

President delivers a message to Congress recommending civil rights legislation to protect personal freedom and opportunity for all people.

Truman's recognition of Israel in May 1948 demonstrated his support for democracy and commitment to a homeland for the Jewish people.

After years of deliberation with Palestine, the United States officially recognizes the State of Israel. This recognition coincides with the declaration of the new state by Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion on the same day.

After the Soviets began the blockade of Berlin, President Harry S. Truman made the decision that the United States would 'stay in Berlin' and not concede the city as part of the Soviet sphere of influence. He rejected proposals to send a military convoy through the Soviet zone to Berlin, and instead chose to maintain the airlift to supply the city without initiating war. The crisis over Berlin demonstrated a high point in the tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union.

Secretary of State Marshall made a statement on June 30, 1948, declaring that the US 'intends to stay' in Berlin.

Orders were given for the airlifting of supplies into West Berlin, demonstrating a commitment to support the city during a critical time.

President Truman signs a bill to provide economic assistance to the Navajo and Hopi Indians, aiming to improve their living conditions and support their communities.

The Democratic Party nominates Harry S. Truman as their candidate for the upcoming presidential election, showing their support for his leadership and policies.

Senator Strom Thurmond of South Carolina was unanimously selected as the nominee for President by the States Rights Democrats, who advocated for racial segregation and the integrity of each race.

President Truman signs an executive order to desegregate the Armed Forces, marking a significant step towards ending racial discrimination in the military.

President Truman calls a special session of Congress to address inflation, rising cost of living, and the national housing shortage. He expresses frustration at the Republican Congress for not helping the people and advocates for an increase in minimum wage and replacing the Taft-Hartley law.

Truman campaigns vigorously, criticizing the 'do-nothing Congress' and advocating for action to address the nation's issues.

President Truman wins the presidential election, securing 49.5% of the popular vote and 57.1% of the electoral vote, defeating New York Governor Thomas E. Dewey. Despite challenges, Truman's victory is solid, including winning traditionally Democratic southern states.

President Truman established the Committee on Civil Rights in December 1948 to address issues of racial discrimination and inequality in the United States.

President Truman was scheduled to speak at the 'Mid-Century Convocation' the night after Winston Churchill but declined at the last minute, possibly due to not wanting to follow the renowned speaker.

The Fourth Annual State of the Union Message was delivered, emphasizing the concept of the 'Fair Deal' and setting forth a list of domestic demands. This message had a notable impact on the domestic policy of the United States.

President Truman is inaugurated for his second term and introduces the Point IV Program in his inaugural address, emphasizing the need for a new program to assist underprivileged people around the world.

Twelve nations from Europe and North America signed the North Atlantic Treaty, which was aimed at establishing a mutual defense alliance and promoting stability in the region.

The North Atlantic Treaty was signed, establishing trade agreements between 12 countries in Europe and North America, leading to the formation of NATO. This aligned with the principles of the United Nations Charter, emphasizing the importance of global goodwill and economic openness.

The North Atlantic Treaty was transmitted to the Senate for approval, marking a crucial step in the process of ratification and implementation.

The Soviet Union lifted the blockade of Berlin, easing tensions and allowing for the resumption of essential supplies to the city.

On June 6, 1949, an executive order was signed to establish the office of U.S. High Commissioner in Germany, marking a significant step in transitioning from military supervision to civilian control in the country.

The Housing Act of 1949 was signed, leading to the creation of a national housing agency and low-cost housing projects. This marked a major achievement for Truman and the liberal faction in Congress.

On August 10, 1949, the National Security Act Amendment was signed, leading to the establishment of a unified Department of Defense.

On September 5, 1949, Harry S. Truman delivered a Labor Day Address at the Convention of the American Veterans, which was broadcast nationally on radio. In his address, he advocated for a strong farm price support system and warned against being influenced by the false arguments and loud clamor of special interests.

On September 23, 1949, Harry S. Truman announced that an atomic explosion had occurred in the Soviet Union in recent weeks, implying that the United States no longer had a monopoly on nuclear weapons. It was later revealed that the explosion had taken place on August 29, 1949.

Truman announces that the Soviet Union has detonated an atomic bomb.

On January 31, 1950, the President revealed that he had ordered the Atomic Energy Commission to develop the hydrogen bomb.

The United States announces the commencement of the development of the hydrogen bomb, a significant advancement in nuclear weapons technology.

On March 22, 1950, Joseph McCarthy sent a telegram to President Harry S. Truman. The nature and purpose of the telegram are not detailed in the input.

Mao and Stalin sign the Sino-Soviet alliance, forming a strategic partnership between China and the Soviet Union.

The National Security Council presents NSC-68: United States Objectives and Programs for National Security to Truman, outlining the national security objectives and programs for the United States.

When North Korea invaded South Korea in June 1950, Truman responded by waging undeclared war.

On June 26, 1950, the President ordered U.S. air and sea forces to aid South Korean Troops in resisting the Communist forces of North Korea, which had invaded South Korea the day before.

On June 30, 1950, the President announced that he had ordered American ground forces in Japan to Korea and the navy to blockade the Korean coast. This policy was backed by the U.N. Security Council, and General Douglas MacArthur was put in charge of all U.N. troops in the area.

Truman reports to the Congress on the situation in Korea, highlighting the U.S. action pursuant to a UN request and the designation of MacArthur as commander at UN request. Authorization for the use of United States Army troops in Korea and the need for more troops and appropriations are emphasized.

President Truman signs the National Security Act Amendment, which leads to the establishment of a unified Department of Defense, reshaping the country's national security structure.

Ordered the government to seize the railroads on 27 August in order to prevent a nationwide strike.

Truman signs the 1950 Social Security Amendments, which expand coverage and increase benefits under the Social Security program.

President signed the Defense Production Act, which established priorities, a price and wage stabilization program, and limited installment buying.

President discusses the need to build strength to deter Communist aggression in a national broadcast on radio and television.

Accepted the resignation of Louis A. Johnson as secretary of defense, who was succeeded by General George C. Marshall on 21 September.

President objects to provisions intended to exclude persons seeking to overthrow the US Government, citing vague language. The veto is sustained.

Truman vetoes the Internal Security Act, a controversial legislative proposal aimed at addressing internal security concerns in the United States.

Due to the Korean War, the legislation focused on reducing excise taxes transformed into legislation raising both individual and corporate income taxes.

Truman meets with General Douglas MacArthur to discuss the situation in Korea, where MacArthur assures Truman that the Chinese will not intervene, despite Chinese 'volunteers' entering North Korea the day before.

Truman narrowly escaped an assassination attempt by two Puerto Rican nationalists.

In a news conference, the United States addresses the Chinese attack in North Korea and expresses the intention to work with the United Nations to stop the aggression. Additionally, the US announces plans to increase its military strength.

Truman wrote a strongly worded letter to music critic Paul Hume, sparking public controversy.

President Truman declares a state of national emergency in the fight against communism and imposes wage and price controls as part of the effort.

President Truman advocates for a 'pay as we go' approach to the national deficit and proposes raised taxes to finance the federal government and prevent the accumulation of debt.

President Truman signs an Executive Order to seize steel mills and prevent a strike by steel workers.

President Truman dismisses General MacArthur from his command for insubordination.

President Truman campaigns for Democratic candidate Adlai Stevenson.

President Truman signs the Mutual Security Act, authorizing a substantial amount of funding for foreign economic, military, and technical aid.

On October 20, 1951, General Mark W. Clark was nominated to be the ambassador to the Vatican. This move received both praise and condemnation, and the Congress failed to act on the appointment. Eventually, on January 13, 1952, it was announced that Clark's nomination would not be resubmitted at his request.

On October 24, 1951, it was proclaimed that the state of war with Germany officially ended as of October 19. This marked an important milestone in the post-war period.

Truman signs a memorandum of disapproval (pocket veto) for a bill that requires segregation in certain schools on Federal property on November 2, 1951.

The contract between the nation's steel producers and the United Steelworkers Union expired after weeks of failed negotiations. Both sides looked to government agencies created by Truman to provide a solution.

The Seventh Annual State of the Union Message was delivered on January 9, 1952, outlining the current state of the nation and proposed legislative agenda by the President.

After living in Blair House for several months, Harry S. Truman and his family moved back to the White House following its renovation.

On March 29, 1952, President Truman announced that he would not seek reelection, citing his long and efficient service to the country.

President Truman issued an executive order on April 8, 1952, to seize control of steel mills, expanding the executive branch's power to prevent a national emergency due to a potential strike.

Harry S. Truman signed the ratification of the peace treaty with Japan and defense treaties with Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines, marking an important diplomatic achievement.

The President issues an executive order allowing the Secretary of the Interior to take control of and operate coal mines due to disruptions in the coal industry affecting national defense.

The President expresses opposition to a proposed Korean War settlement that would compel prisoners of war to return to China or North Korea against their will.

The President vetoes the Tidelands Act, contending that it unreasonably grants lands to coastal states beyond the scope of restoring the situation prior to the 1947 Supreme Court decision in US vs. California.

The Supreme Court ruled in a six-to-three vote that Truman's seizure of steel mills was unconstitutional.

President Truman encouraged the Justice Department to argue before the Supreme Court on behalf of plaintiffs fighting against segregation in June 1952, showing his commitment to addressing civil rights issues.

The president addressed a Joint Session of Congress, seeking legislation to help end the steel strike following the Supreme Court ruling on 1952-06-02. He criticized the Taft-Hartley Act approach and the Senate's recommendation to invoke it. The strike was eventually resolved in July.

The act terminates the Asian immigration ban, introduces a quota system, and removes racial bars to naturalization. It also grants federal power to deport non-citizens suspected of having communist leanings. Despite Truman's veto, Congress overrides it, leading to significant changes in the immigration system.

President Truman signs a veteran's bill to provide educational and other benefits for Korean War veterans, recognizing and supporting their service and sacrifice.

The newly-adopted constitution of Puerto Rico is transmitted to Congress for ratification, which is ultimately ratified on July 25, 1952.

President Truman invited president-elect General Dwight D. Eisenhower to the White House to discuss the transition from one administration to the next after the Republican victory on 4 November. The meeting between Truman and Eisenhower took place on 19 November.

Harry S Truman's presidency ended in 1953 after serving two terms. His time in office was marked by significant events such as the conclusion of World War II and the early stages of the Cold War.

On January 15, 1953, Harry S. Truman delivered his Farewell Address to the Nation. This address marked the end of his presidency and provided insights into his time in office.

Truman's presidency ended as he was replaced by the Republican Dwight Eisenhower, marking the transition to a new administration.

President vetoed the joint resolution of Congress confirming state claims to submerged lands below the low water mark, known as the 'tidelands' dispute.

On his 71st birthday, Harry S. Truman breaks ground for the construction of a privately financed Harry S. Truman Library building.

Harry and Bess tour Europe, meeting with a number of European leaders, including Winston Churchill and Pope Pius XII. Truman receives numerous honors, including an honorary degree from Oxford University.

Truman attends the marriage of his daughter, Mary Margaret, to E. Clifton Daniel, Jr. in Trinity Episcopal Church, Independence, Missouri. Four grandsons will be born.

The Harry S. Truman Library and Museum opened its doors in 1957, and recently completed a massive renovation of the museum and its exhibitions, the first major renovation in more than 20 years.

Truman publishes his post-presidential memoir, 'Mr. Citizen.'

A large statue of Truman is unveiled in Athens, Greece, honoring him as one of Greece’s 'greatest benefactors.'

Truman attends the funeral of President Kennedy and meets afterward with Eisenhower, symbolizing a final 'reconciliation' between the two former political adversaries.

Truman becomes the first former president to address the U.S. Senate while it is in formal session, and he is honored by the Senate on his 80th birthday.

Truman High School in Independence, Missouri is dedicated to President and Mrs. Truman. The school's team name is selected as Patriots and its colors are red, white, and blue. This event signifies the honor and recognition given to the Trumans in their hometown.

Truman makes his last appearance as a speaker at the eighth annual July 4th celebration on the Truman Library grounds on July 4, 1966.

President Johnson signs a bill designating October 24, 1968 as U. N. Day in the Truman home, acknowledging Truman’s role in creating the United Nations organization in 1945.

Truman tours his presidential library for the last time with his wife Bess, daughter Margaret, and son-in-law E. Clifton Daniel.

Harry S. Truman passes away at the age of 88 on December 26, 1972.

The Truman Library Teacher Conference is scheduled to take place in 2024, providing educators with valuable resources and insights related to Harry S. Truman's presidency and historical significance.