Israel and the Legacy of Harry S. Truman

by Michael J. Devine (Editor), Robert P. Watson, Robert J. Wolz

When he assumed the presidency in April 1945, Harry S. Truman inherited various international sources of turmoil, including the ambiguity of American policy toward political Zionism. Three years later, President Truman recognized the State of Israel on May 14, 1948, just 11 minutes after the announcement of its existence. These essays explore the methods Truman used to tackle this dilemma, one he is said to have considered more troublesome than almost any other issue plaguing the United States at the time. After 50 years of continuing conflict between the Israelis and Palestinians, the legacy of Truman's struggle is reflected in the distinct voices of this collection's contributors, including scholars, a former U.S. ambassador to Israel, Israel's representative to the United Nations, and a White House aide during Truman's presidency.

121 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2008

Reviews

[Angela Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating collection of essays by many of the top writers and scholars in the field. Each examines President Truman's political and personal relationships with Zionists, and with the Jewish people in general. His early support of a Jewish homeland and his landmark recognition of the State of Israel only eleven minutes after it was declared at midnight, May 15, 1948 (Israeli time) was a watershed moment in history, and one that resonates throughout the world to this day. Each entry is clearly written, engaging and simply presented. A terrific little volume that helps to shed some light on the man, his Presidency, and his legacy with the Jewish nation.