Truman Flashcards
What did the anti-communist Harry Truman introduce when he became president?
A much harder edge to US Cold War diplomacy after April 1945
What did Truman say when he admitted that he had been put on a steep learning curve?
‘I feel like I’ve been struck by a bolt of lightning’
How was Truman different to FDR?
Couldn’t match FDR’s charisma and public speaking skills
Lacked the social and intellectual confidence of FDR
What increased Soviet fears and made Stalin less likely to co-operate?
Truman’s uncompromising anti-communist stance
What did Truman write in a private note in May 1945?
‘I’ve no faith in any totalitarian state. They all start with the wrong premise - that lies are justified and the end justifies the means. But Russian Godless Pervert Systems won’t work’
How did Truman have a lack of international experience?
FDR didn’t keep Truman informed as VP. They had only two private meetings before FDR’s death.
Truman had little prior knowledge of foreign affairs
His inexperience made him keen to establish a strong international reputations
What domestic pressures did Truman face?
Had to take US public and political opinion into account, e.g. decision to intervene in Korea was influence by domestic criticism that his government had lost China in 1949.
Why did Truman exaggerate the communist threat?
To secure key objectives, such as Congressional aid to Greece and Turkey and US acceptance of the Truman Doctrine
What were Truman’s personal characteristics and beliefs?
Stridently anti-communist and more suspicious of Soviet motives than FDR
Saw issues in black and white terms
Lacked the patience to work through complex problems. He admitted he was not up on all details
What did Truman quickly become convinced of?
The USSR was an expansionist power, which the USA had to contain
Give examples of Truman’s get tough policy to try to stem communist growth
Upbraided Molotov over Soviet policy on Poland (1945)
Used US nuclear monopoly to put pressure on Stalin at Potsdam
Ran supply flights to thwart the Berlin Blockade (1948-49)
What is Truman’s elevation to presidency regarded as?
A significant factor in the development of the Cold War
