Harry Truman

             Truman became the 33rd president of the United States when President Franklin D. He was considered one of the most controversial presidents, because of his willingness to accept responsibility for making difficult decisions. Truman had an outstanding ability to face tough situations. During his rein as President of the United States, Truman initiated the foreign policy of containing Communism, and started the CIA. He continued the welfare policies established by President Roosevelt, and helped to centralize power in the executive branch. Throughout his administration, Truman failed to receive congressional support for most of his Fair Deal program. Although, he was able to produce an outstanding recording of foreign affairs, especially in meeting what most Americans felt was the challenge posed by the rising power of the Communism, because he was able to secure sufficient legislative backing. During Truman's administration, the United States became a charter member of the United Nations, and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. The Truman Doctrine, the Marshall Plan, and Point Four Program were initiated. The United States also assumed a leading role infighting in the Korean War.
             Roosevelt's aides largely devoted President Truman's first month in office to briefings. He asked the founding conference of the United Nations to meet in San Francisco on April 25, as had been planned before Roosevelt's death. When victory in Europe seemed certain, Truman insisted on unconditional German surrender. On May 8, 1945, his 61st birthday, he proclaimed Victory-In-Europe Day (V-E Day). Truman convinced the San Francisco conference delegation of the U.S.S.R. that the general assembly of the new world peace organization should have free discussions, and should maker recommendations to the Security Council. Truman then addressed the final conference session, and six days later, he presented the United Nations Charter to the Senate for ratification.