Early Life and Education
Harry S. Truman was born on May 8, 1884, in Lamar, Missouri. Raised in a modest farming family, he worked on his family's farm after graduating high school. He had poor eyesight but was a voracious reader with a strong interest in history and government[1].
He briefly studied at a business college and later at the University of Missouri School of Law but did not complete a degree[2].
Military Service in World War I
In 1905, Truman joined the Missouri National Guard. During World War I, he served in France as a captain in the U.S. Army, commanding Battery D of the 129th Field Artillery. He was respected for his leadership and earned lifelong loyalty from his men[3].
Entry Into Politics
After returning from the war, Truman briefly ran a haberdashery in Kansas City, which closed during the 1921 recession. Entering politics with the backing of Tom Pendergast's machine, he became a county judge and later won election to the U.S. Senate in 1934[1].
Truman gained national attention as chairman of the Senate Special Committee to Investigate the National Defense Program, saving the government billions during WWII procurement[4].
Vice Presidency and Sudden Presidency
Truman was nominated as Franklin D. Roosevelt's running mate in 1944 and became Vice President in January 1945. He was largely excluded from major decisions and only learned about the Manhattan Project after becoming president upon Roosevelt's sudden death on April 12, 1945[2].
End of World War II
Truman faced the critical decision of how to end the war with Japan. After Japan rejected surrender terms, he authorized the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945, leading to Japan's surrender[3].
The decision remains controversial, though Truman stated it was necessary to avoid a costly invasion of Japan[5].
Post-War Presidency
Truman presided over a transformative period: the Marshall Plan rebuilt Europe, the Truman Doctrine sought to contain communism, and NATO was formed under his leadership[5].
Despite predictions of defeat, he won re-election in 1948 against Thomas Dewey in a historic political upset[3].
Korean War and Second Term Challenges
Truman desegregated the U.S. military and federal workforce in 1948[4]. The Korean War began in 1950 under his administration. He dismissed General Douglas MacArthur in 1951, reaffirming civilian control of the military[5].
Later Life and Death
Truman left office in 1953 with mixed approval but remained active in public discourse. He published memoirs and lived modestly in Independence, Missouri. He died on December 26, 1972, at age 88[1].
Legacy
Truman is now viewed as a decisive and morally grounded leader. His legacy includes shaping the post-war world order, initiating civil rights reforms, and defending democratic ideals during the rise of the Cold War[5].