Harry S. Truman Timeline
Harry S. Truman by People
Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, served from 1945 to 1953, stepping into the role after the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Truman is known for making the difficult decision to end World War II by dropping atomic bombs on Japan. He also introduced the Truman Doctrine to provide aid to Greece and Turkey, aiming to prevent the spread of communism, and initiated the Marshall Plan, which helped rebuild Western Europe after the war. Truman's presidency marked a significant turning point in U.S. history, shaping the nation's role in the global community during the Cold War era.
May 8, 1884
Birth in Lamar, Missouri
Born in a small Missouri town, Truman was the son of a farmer. His humble beginnings in Lamar would later shape his down-to-earth, straightforward style as a leader. Truman's birth in this rural setting marked the start of a journey that would lead him to the highest office in the United States.
June 1, 1901
Graduation from Independence High School
This event marks the completion of Truman's secondary education in Independence, Missouri. Known for his determination, he was the only one of his siblings to graduate from high school. This achievement laid the foundation for his future political career.
April 2, 1917
Enlistment in the Army during World War I
The future U.S. President joined the military during a global conflict known as World War I. He served in an artillery unit, which used large guns to attack enemy positions from a distance. His leadership skills shone through, and he quickly rose to the rank of captain.
June 28, 1919
Marriage to Bess Wallace
The marriage of the future U.S. President to Bess Wallace was a significant event in his personal life. They had known each other since childhood and their bond grew stronger over the years. Their marriage lasted for 53 years, a testament to their strong relationship.
November 7, 1922
Election as County Judge of Jackson County, Missouri
This election marked Truman's first significant political victory. As a County Judge, he was not a courtroom judge but rather an administrative position in the county government. His role involved making important decisions about local issues like roads and public buildings.
February 17, 1924
Birth of only child, Margaret
Margaret Truman, the only child of the U.S. President, was born in Missouri. She grew up to be a successful writer and singer, making her parents proud. Her life was a mix of public and private, as she navigated her unique role as a President's daughter.
November 6, 1934
Election to the U.S. Senate
In 1934, Truman won a seat in the U.S. Senate, representing the state of Missouri. His victory was a significant step in his political career, paving the way for his future role as President. Truman's time in the Senate helped him gain valuable experience and connections in Washington, D.C.
January 20, 1945
Inauguration as Vice President under Franklin D. Roosevelt
Truman stepped into the role of Vice President during a critical time in World War II. He was chosen for this position due to his reputation for honesty and integrity. However, his time as Vice President was short-lived, as he would soon have to assume the presidency after Roosevelt's unexpected death.
April 12, 1945
Assumption of Presidency after Roosevelt's Death
When President Roosevelt passed away, the Vice President had to step up. This person was next in line and it was his job to lead the country. He had to make big decisions, like how to end World War II. It was a tough job, but he was ready to do it.
August 6, 1945
Ordering of Atomic Bomb Drop on Hiroshima, Japan
This event marked the first use of atomic weapons in warfare, a decision made to hasten the end of World War II. The bomb, nicknamed "Little Boy," caused immense destruction and loss of life. This action sparked a significant debate about the ethics and impact of nuclear weapons that continues today.
November 2, 1948
Re-election as President in 'Dewey Defeats Truman' Upset
This event was a major surprise in American politics. Everyone expected Thomas E. Dewey to win, even newspapers printed headlines saying so. But, in a shocking turn, the underdog won, proving all predictions wrong. This is why it's known as the 'Dewey Defeats Truman' upset.
June 25, 1950
Start of Korean War and U.S. Involvement
When North Korea invaded South Korea, the U.S. decided to step in. This marked the beginning of the Korean War. The U.S. involvement was significant as it was a part of a larger effort to stop the spread of communism during the Cold War era.
January 20, 1953
End of Presidency and Retirement
After serving as the 33rd U.S. President, his term ended and he retired to his hometown in Missouri. He spent his retirement years writing, lecturing, and establishing his presidential library. Despite leaving the White House, he remained an influential figure in American politics.
December 26, 1972
Death in Kansas City, Missouri
The 33rd U.S. President passed away in Kansas City, Missouri. His health had been declining, and he died in a hospital. His death marked the end of an era, as he had led the country through significant events like the end of World War II.
Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, served from 1945 to 1953, stepping into the role after the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Truman is known for making the difficult decision to end World War II by dropping atomic bombs on Japan. He also introduced the Truman Doctrine to provide aid to Greece and Turkey, aiming to prevent the spread of communism, and initiated the Marshall Plan, which helped rebuild Western Europe after the war. Truman's presidency marked a significant turning point in U.S. history, shaping the nation's role in the global community during the Cold War era.
Born in a small Missouri town, Truman was the son of a farmer. His humble beginnings in Lamar would later shape his down-to-earth, straightforward style as a leader. Truman's birth in this rural setting marked the start of a journey that would lead him to the highest office in the United States.
This event marks the completion of Truman's secondary education in Independence, Missouri. Known for his determination, he was the only one of his siblings to graduate from high school. This achievement laid the foundation for his future political career.
The future U.S. President joined the military during a global conflict known as World War I. He served in an artillery unit, which used large guns to attack enemy positions from a distance. His leadership skills shone through, and he quickly rose to the rank of captain.
The marriage of the future U.S. President to Bess Wallace was a significant event in his personal life. They had known each other since childhood and their bond grew stronger over the years. Their marriage lasted for 53 years, a testament to their strong relationship.
This election marked Truman's first significant political victory. As a County Judge, he was not a courtroom judge but rather an administrative position in the county government. His role involved making important decisions about local issues like roads and public buildings.
Margaret Truman, the only child of the U.S. President, was born in Missouri. She grew up to be a successful writer and singer, making her parents proud. Her life was a mix of public and private, as she navigated her unique role as a President's daughter.
In 1934, Truman won a seat in the U.S. Senate, representing the state of Missouri. His victory was a significant step in his political career, paving the way for his future role as President. Truman's time in the Senate helped him gain valuable experience and connections in Washington, D.C.
Truman stepped into the role of Vice President during a critical time in World War II. He was chosen for this position due to his reputation for honesty and integrity. However, his time as Vice President was short-lived, as he would soon have to assume the presidency after Roosevelt's unexpected death.
When President Roosevelt passed away, the Vice President had to step up. This person was next in line and it was his job to lead the country. He had to make big decisions, like how to end World War II. It was a tough job, but he was ready to do it.
This event marked the first use of atomic weapons in warfare, a decision made to hasten the end of World War II. The bomb, nicknamed "Little Boy," caused immense destruction and loss of life. This action sparked a significant debate about the ethics and impact of nuclear weapons that continues today.
This event was a major surprise in American politics. Everyone expected Thomas E. Dewey to win, even newspapers printed headlines saying so. But, in a shocking turn, the underdog won, proving all predictions wrong. This is why it's known as the 'Dewey Defeats Truman' upset.
When North Korea invaded South Korea, the U.S. decided to step in. This marked the beginning of the Korean War. The U.S. involvement was significant as it was a part of a larger effort to stop the spread of communism during the Cold War era.
After serving as the 33rd U.S. President, his term ended and he retired to his hometown in Missouri. He spent his retirement years writing, lecturing, and establishing his presidential library. Despite leaving the White House, he remained an influential figure in American politics.
The 33rd U.S. President passed away in Kansas City, Missouri. His health had been declining, and he died in a hospital. His death marked the end of an era, as he had led the country through significant events like the end of World War II.