Cold War firearms shaped modern infantry tactics by pushing combat decision-making down to the squad level. The AK-47 and M16 standardized assault rifle doctrine worldwide by prioritizing reliability ... Harry S.

Understanding the Context

Truman[b] ( – ) was the 33rd president of the United States, serving from 1945 to 1953. As the 34th vice president in 1945, he assumed the presidency upon the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt that year. Harry S.

Key Insights

Truman The 33rd U.S. president, Harry S. Truman led the U.S. through the final stages of World War II and through the early years of the Cold War. He is shown here in 1945, the year of his succession to the presidency, at the age of 60.

Final Thoughts

Harry S. Truman (1884-1972), the 33rd U.S. president, assumed office following the death of President Franklin Roosevelt (1882-1945). When the Soviets blockaded the western sectors of Berlin in 1948, Truman created a massive airlift to supply Berliners until the Soviets backed down. Meanwhile, he was negotiating a military alliance to protect Western nations, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), established in 1949. Harry S.

Truman became President of the United States with the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt on . During his nearly eight years in office, Truman confronted enormous challenges in both foreign and domestic affairs. Truman left the presidency and retired to Independence in January 1953.