Book SummaryDewey Defeats Truman, by A. J. Baime

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Dewey Defeats Truman

Truman's rise to the presidency and the early challenges he encountered.

Truman's unforeseen ascent to the presidency.

Truman's early political career in Missouri was molded by the Pendergast machine, which culminated in his unforeseen nomination for the vice presidency in 1944.

A.J. Baime provides a detailed account of the early political pursuits of Harry S. Truman, closely linked with the operations of the Democratic Party in Jackson County, Missouri. The Pendergast family, a prominent political force within Kansas City, played a crucial role in the initiation of Harry Truman's political career. Tom Pendergast, frequently dubbed the "Big Boss" of the political machine, was known for his considerable influence and deep involvement in the city's unlawful undertakings.

Truman's early political victories were greatly shaped by the support he received from Pendergast. In 1922, he secured a position as a judge in Jackson County, which was more akin to that of a county commissioner than a judicial role. Truman consistently supported the Democratic Party and remained a dedicated advocate for Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal initiatives, despite the Missouri media frequently depicting him as merely a subordinate to Pendergast. Truman's elevation to the US Senate in 1934, orchestrated by Pendergast, was met with doubt due to his lack of prominence in the public's awareness. Truman began his Senate career quietly, consistently supporting the stance of his political party. He persisted in adhering to his mentor's counsel, which highlighted the significance of hard work, the merit of remaining silent, and the swiftness in replying to letters. Truman's public image suffered significantly due to his connection with Pendergast, a political figure who had fallen from grace and was now associated with tax evasion allegations.

Context

• The Pendergast machine was a powerful political organization in Kansas City, Missouri, known for its control over local politics through patronage and sometimes corrupt practices. It was instrumental in getting candidates elected by mobilizing votes and providing financial support.
• The role of a judge in Jackson County at the time was more administrative than judicial. It involved managing county affairs, which provided Truman with valuable experience in governance and public administration.
• Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal was a series of programs and reforms introduced in response to the Great Depression, focusing on relief for the unemployed, recovery of the economy, and reform of the financial system to prevent a future depression.
• The 1934 election occurred during the Great Depression, a time when economic hardship made political machines even more influential as they could offer tangible assistance to struggling citizens. This environment helped Pendergast secure votes for Truman.
• The Senate in the 1930s was a complex environment with significant figures like Majority Leader Joseph Robinson, who played a crucial role in pushing New Deal legislation. Truman's alignment with his party would have involved navigating these dynamics.
• The advice to remain silent can be interpreted as a strategic move in politics, where speaking too freely or prematurely can lead to missteps or controversies. This approach allows politicians to listen, gather information, and make informed decisions without unnecessary exposure to criticism.
• Tom Pendergast was convicted of income tax evasion in 1939, which significantly damaged his reputation and, by extension, the reputations of those linked to him, including Truman.

Following the unforeseen death of FDR, Truman suddenly found himself assuming the presidential role at a pivotal moment in World War II, which also marked the beginning of the nuclear age.

The writer emphasizes the unexpected sequence of occurrences that propelled Truman first into the role of vice president and then into the presidency. Despite the challenging circumstances of his 1940 reelection bid, Truman achieved victory, setting himself apart from the controversy linked to Pendergast. With the US entering World War II, he gained national attention through his leadership of the Truman Committee, which investigated government military spending and uncovered inefficiencies in the war effort.

The choice of Truman, who was then a senator with little national fame, to be FDR's vice-presidential candidate in the 1944 election was unexpected, taking over the position from the incumbent Vice President, Henry Wallace. Baime narrates the president's counselors' concerns about Wallace's inclination towards progressive ideals and unorthodox actions, which led them to convince the president to exclude him from the reelection slate. Truman agreed to join the ticket following a personal persuasion through direct telephone discussions with FDR. Harry Truman was catapulted into the presidency due to Roosevelt's passing, despite having been vice president for merely 82 days. Truman ascended to the presidency at a time when nations worldwide grappled with the aftermath of conflict and the implications of nuclear weaponry.

Context

• By the time Truman became president in April 1945, World War II was nearing its end in Europe, with Germany surrendering in May 1945. However, the war in the Pacific against Japan was still ongoing.
• The decision to replace Henry Wallace with Truman was influenced by Democratic Party leaders who were concerned about Wallace's progressive views and potential impact on the election. Truman was seen as a more moderate and unifying choice.
• Truman's ability to maintain a clean image and his focus on accountability and transparency in...

Dewey Defeats Truman Summary Truman faced numerous challenges and conflicts in domestic policy during his presidency.

The initiative for domestic reform led by President Truman was focused on rebuilding the nation following the war's conclusion.

Truman proposed a strategy called the 21-Point Program, which aimed to enhance social services, elevate the minimum wage, and boost government investment in infrastructure.

The program consisting of 21 key initiatives was designed to address the nation's pressing domestic issues and establish the groundwork for an equitable society after the war. In September 1945, just three weeks after Japan surrendered, a broad array of policy initiatives was announced. The initiative's primary focus was to expand Social Security's coverage to encompass previously excluded groups and to improve the benefits for existing recipients.

The initiative also championed a higher national minimum wage, emphasizing that equitable pay is essential for maintaining economic steadiness and improving the quality of life for workers in the United States. Additionally, the strategy encompassed substantial federal investment in infrastructure, focusing on the construction of highways, airports, and public buildings, alongside the promotion of resource management. Truman's...

Dewey Defeats Truman Summary The Cold War's intensifying strain significantly steered the course of America's foreign affairs.

The objective of the Truman Doctrine was to curb the expansion of Soviet influence.

The policy of the Truman Doctrine, which supported nations resisting the advance of communism, shaped the United States' strategy in foreign affairs for an extended period.

Truman's approach was crafted to curb the expansion of Soviet power, committed to halting the spread of communism, and in support of nations resisting Soviet aggression. In March 1947, during a speech to Congress, a new strategy was unveiled that significantly altered the United States' foreign policy, pledging proactive engagement and support to countries threatened by Soviet expansion.

Practical Tips

• You can deepen your understanding of global political ideologies by comparing the principles of communism with those of other political systems. Start by creating a simple chart that lists the core beliefs and practices of communism on one side and those of capitalism, socialism, and any other political ideology you're interested in on the other. This exercise will help you grasp the fundamental differences and may clarify why certain nations might resist a particular ideology.
• Implement a "containment...

Dewey Defeats Truman Summary The unexpected victory of Truman in the 1948 presidential election.

Internal strife was prevalent within the Democratic Party.

The Progressive Party, under the guidance of Henry Wallace, became the foundation for the most left-leaning group's political activities, which stood in opposition to Truman's strategies during the Cold War.

Baime clarifies that Truman faced a twofold struggle: contending with a formidable Republican adversary and simultaneously addressing significant internal strife within the Democratic Party. Former Vice President Henry Wallace, a staunch critic of Truman's Cold War policies, launched a third-party bid for the presidency, leading the newly formed Progressive Party. Wallace, often viewed as an unconventional figure, attracted support from resolute progressives who grew disillusioned because they believed Truman's strategies during the Cold War seemed to incline toward Communist ideologies.

Context

• Wallace's campaign was controversial, with some viewing him as a visionary for peace and social justice, while others criticized him for being too sympathetic to communist ideals, which was a significant concern during the Red Scare.

Other Perspectives

• The term "opposed" could be too strong...