Harry S.

Harry S. Truman - Biography. 33rd president of the United States Birth May 8, 1884 Death December 26, 1972 Home State Missouri Party Democratic Terms In Office 1945-1949 1949-1953 Vice President Alben William Barkley Significant Acts Ordered the dropping of atomic bombs on Japan in August 1945, leading to Japan's unconditional surrender in World War II. Announced the Truman Doctrine, a policy of helping other countries oppose Communism, in 1947. Began the rebuilding of war-ravaged Europe under the Marshall Plan in 1948. Waged an undeclared war in Korea to defend South Korea against North Korean Communists. Presented his 'Fair Deal' program to promote housing, civil rights, education, and social security. Career 1917-1919 Served in World War I. 1926-1934 Served as judge of Jackson County, Missouri. 1935-1945 Represented Missouri in U.S. Senate. 1941-1944 Chaired the 'Truman Committee,' which investigated waste in war spending. January 20, 1945-April 12, 1945 Vice president of the United States under Franklin D. Roosevelt. April 12, 1945-January 20, 1953 President of the United States. Did You Know Truman's famous desk plaque, which read 'The buck stops here,' was made for him at an Oklahoma prison. Truman's middle initial, S., does not stand for a particular name--it honors both his grandfathers. Truman survived an assassination attempt in 1950 that killed a White House guard. Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.