My dad said that he was making a delivery to the Truman Library sometime in the late 1960s, and as he entered the building there was an older gentleman playing President Truman's piano in the lobby. He thought nothing of it until the librarian said, "He likes to come over and play HIS piano". Only then did he notice it was President Truman.
Hey! I’m Jeff from West Virginia! It was great meeting you that day, and you definitely did add me to this video! Thanks again, and I hope to run into you again on one of your history travels. Great work!
My father was a US Marine in WWII in 1945, he served on a converted aircraft carrier and was a mechanic on the Corsairs fighters. Truman was his favorite president saying his decision to use the atomic bomb saved his life.
I believe my great grandpa was in ww2 as well truman probably saved his life too Id have to ask my grandma were all he served an what branch he served in my great grandpa unfortunately died in the 70's due to a heart attack. Ive had a few family members severed so as u can only imagine its hard to keep what it especially when they died way before u was born.
Great episode! The Kansas City area is lucky to have such an important museum located in the area. Another stop in the Kansas City area that has a tie-in with President Truman is the National WWI Museum. When the war ended in Europe, my dad was awaiting movement in preparation of the invasion of Japan. As his division, the 99th, had landed in France in August of 1944, he and most of the other personnel in the division, did not have enough “points” to be rotated home. As a veteran infantry division, the men of the 99th were waiting for orders to move to the Pacific. Dad always said, the reason Truman won the 1948 election, was that those veterans waiting for the invasion of Japan voted for him. It was a terrible decision to make but saved thousands of American lives and thousands of Japanese lives, too.
My husband was an Indep policeman when Truman was in his final illness. We heard after his death that he told someone that if he died on Christmas day, to delay the announcement until the next day. He did not want to disturb the police, etc. Christmas holiday.
I visited this site on a middle school trip. President Truman came to the auditorium to take questions. I visited again to give my respects when he lay in state after his death.
Thank you for this video and for your commentary. I grew up in Independence and in my senior year of high school was able to shake hands with President Truman. One of our cadets received an award so we did a ceremony on the William Chrisman High School football field where President Truman made the presentation with the cadets in formation of the field. After the award presentation, President Truman and the other senior guests reviewed the formation and President Truman shook hands with each cadet officer and congratulated us on our decorations. It was a real honor for a seventeen year old high school kid.
My great uncle was killed in the battles of the reservoir in December of 1950. He was barley 20 years old and had lied about his age to join the service. I’ve met one surviving vet from that battle who knew my uncle and he said the last time he saw Donny he was storming Chinese tanks with 3 other men with nothing more than their rifles and hand grenades. He was never seen again. It took 25 years of research and working with the DPAA to locate his remains and he was finally returned home and buried next to his father on Veterans Day 2017. RIP to all who never came home
My step grandfather was in Korea too, but he was in the Marine Corps, I'm not sure where he would have been, but that's as much as he would say about it.
My dad was a WWII vet. Was in the 31st infantry Philippines in 1936. Out in 1940 (missed the Battan death march). Back in after Pearl. Was in charge of a part of the China supply lines in the CBI theater at a Wearhouse in northeast India. Supplying the planes going over the hump and later the Stillwell Road. Thanks for all you do!
@@TheHistoryUnderground I really enjoy your videos, especially those at Gettysburg (I live about 90 miles from there in Lewistown, PA). One interesting artifact we have in town is at the base of our Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Monument Square, a stone from President Lincoln's tomb.
It’s truly amazing that Truman was kept in the dark about the Manhattan project. Maybe at the time Roosevelt didn’t realize how significant the bomb would be. I’m truly not sure what Roosevelts thoughts were, as to when he would give the order to drop the bomb. Truman was able to pick right up on its capability and shorten the war. My father-in-law who was still in Europe as a surgeon said his biggest fear was being sent to the Pacific. He believed that using the bomb, significantly shortened the war.
Another way to describe Harry Truman is the only president to save millions of lives - civilian and military by making one of the most difficult and significant decisions in world history. Thanks for the tour.
@@Gian04 Okay, back to history class or, probably to class for the first time. "Saved millions of lives" by NOT moving forward with a full-scale land invasion. And, that's how we learn.
The plug from the "Fat Man" bomb really hit me. The Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombing were a tragedy of American history; however, what many don't realize is that the models show those bombs actually saved more lives that they took! Japan was never going to back down until something like this him their homeland. I am a living testament to that stat. My grandfather was on a ship heading to the invasion of Japan when they were turned around due to the Nagasaki bomb. His unit was told that 80% of them would not even survive the initial invasion. My mother would have most likely would have never been born, hence the family line would have ended in Okinawa. While this may seem selfish, the fact is, these horrific bombings put an end to what seemed like a never ending war. Thank you President Truman for saving my grandfather's life!
His time in office was definitely not an easy one. Like you said, you only scratched the surface, but I learned a few things too. Thanks for the video 👍
My dad, who was in the US Army in the infantry in WW2, spent his life as a staunch Republican but he always kept a good thought of HST. Dad had boarded a troop ship bound for the Pacific after fighting from southern France to Stuttgart. When the news of the bombs ended the war in the Pacific came, they turned the ship toward NYC which was a great relief to all on board.
I bet. He probably saved my great grandfathers life too... Thank god aint no telling if id be here today. Im not sure when he had my grandma because my great grandmother had mostly boys. An aint none of them had kids that im aware of so i literally almost wouldn't have been born. For that truman will be always in high regards with me man.
I leave you with this….”You can’t get rich in politics unless you’re a crook.” -Harry S. Truman. Another great video. I may be biased, living in St. Louis 😁😎.
I just recently finished David McCullough’s biography on President Truman…very long read but also very interesting story. His first 4 months in office was filled with more crazy moments in our history than several presidents combined. Also highly recommend the book, Accidental President: Harry S Truman and the Four Months That Changed the World…was a great book for any history buff out there.
I would also recommend "The Buck Stops Here", Truman's personal essays and writings compiled by his daughter Margaret in the 1980s. Truman stipulated that they could not be published until both he and Bess were gone. There was one entire chapter called, "Why I Don't Like Ike".
Well done JD. Just like everything you do on here. I’m sure the majority of people on here appreciate your hard work as much as I do. Cait wait for the next adventure.
EDIT: At the 22:28 mark, I absentmindedly refer to Truman's desk as "the Resolute Desk", which was an error. Truman used the Theodore Roosevelt desk. Apologies. If you've watched a few episodes and feel like I've earned it, be sure to subscribe so that you don't miss any new content when it comes out. Also be sure to check out The Gettysburg Museum of History and their store at www.gettysburgmuseumofhistory.com. Thanks!
I have tremendous respect for this man. I just realized that from the time he drew his first breath till the time he drew his last, there were 5 conflicts (6 if you count the Cold War.); 2 on a major scale. I can’t help but wonder how torn up he got over that Purple Heart letter; considering how very throughly he knew war.
He kept that letter and the medal in his desk in the top right (I believe) drawer for the remainder of his life. He wasn’t a man to second guess himself, but I am sure there were times when he hoped another decision was possible. We can thank McArthur’s hubris in no small part for the escalation of that war.
In school (1970's) we did not learn much about Truman. He was just a name on a list. I ran across a history book in the library written by Margaret Truman. She was such a good writer that I looked into her bio. She was her father's daughter to be sure. Through learning about her I learned about her father who, as usual, seems to be one of the most under-appreciated presidents. A great man who did great things without a lot of fanfare.
I can still recall visiting this museum back when I was in elementary school in the 1980s. I have visited it again more recently in the last several years and can say that its exhibits have certainly become more interactive and tactile. The Kansas City Metro certainly has some great museums that are far too often overlooked. The Steamboat Arabia Museum is another one that needs to be on your list. Great work once again History Underground!
I visited the Truman library and museum in 2016. When I saw the plug from the bomb, it rocked me back on my feet. One of my math professors had been a sailor on Tinian Island and had watched the Enola Gay take off, altho no one on the island knew what was up at the time. That was the beginning of the flight. Linking in the end result of the flight, I also knew a woman who had survived the bombing. She was 12 at the time. Seeing the plug tied in a part of the weapon that vaporized her father, nearly killed her, and ended the war. I've always had extremely mixed feelings about those bombs. I knew many WW2 veterans who had been slated to invade Japan and felt they would die in the attempt. Even decades later, their relief at not going was palpable. On the other hand, my friend told me that she and her 12 year old girl schoolmates were being trained on how to use bamboo spears to fight if there was an invasion. Bomb or no bomb, each would have been, or was, horrific. There are no winners in war. Let us pray for peace.
Alot of Americans would've been mad if they found out about the weapons an they still sent our boys to potentially die. If it wont for truman dropping that bomb i dont know if id be here my great grandpa was served. He had alot of sons i think he had one daughter. My grandma an didnt none of my great uncles had kids that im aware of... So i understand having mixed emotions but please remember alot of Americans probably wouldnt be alive today an they way japan fought on the island they took from us an things man i think its likely a invasion would've been worse for everyone. I hope we dont use them again but man if i can save American lives with a bomb id probably make the same choice. I couldn't imagine sending men to go fight when i got a weapon that could end it.... Id feel like that would be intentionally murdering Americans an i dont think I could live with that on my conscience...
Wow! Humbling lesson on the back side of the buck stops here sign. He knew the importance of remembering his roots. Remembering where we came from matters…even today. Great video JD. Thank you. Blessings and safe travels.
I hope you had the opportunity to visit his home where he and Bess lived and the other houses in his neighborhood. It was so interesting to be able to go into his home and see where he and Bess lived out their years. You can also see his car sitting in his garage! One of my favorite presidential houses to see and visit. Thanks for this posting!
Reference my earlier comment about getting to shake the president's hand, the Truman home tour is also excellent. His overcoat is still hanging in the entry at the front of the house. I suspect it is the same one he wore on that chilly day in September of 1961.
He was also our last "farmer President", and though a voracious reader (especially of history), was our last President to not have a college degree. You also passed over how he overcame his initial dismissal as "the Senator from Pendergast" by leading the "Truman Committee" investigations into graft early in WWII.
Great video!! I have the same goal man! I’ve been to 25 of the 39 Presidential graves & can’t wait to go see more! I’ve been to 5 presidential libraries & Truman’s was probably my 2nd favorite of all of them behind Reagan’s I really like also how the whole town has kept the history of Truman alive
You were about 6 miles from my home. My parents both moved to Independence in the 1940s. Dad delivered ice to the Truman home during World War II, and as an Independence Police Officer, frequently served as security for Mr. Truman during the 1950s.
From what I know, after Harry left the Oval Office, all that he had for income was a Military Reserve pension of $112.40 (nowadays - $1150). With his memoirs - he earned $670,000. It wasn't until 1958 that he started to receive an annual pension of $25,500 having been President.
Great video. The town I grew up in was where the Truman family farm. Bess Truman family farm was next door. His daughter and son in law are buried there too.
One of my earliest childhood memories is saying hello to him, it must have been the fall before he passed away. We lived in independence and my dad wanted me and my brother to be able to say we met him, and everyone knew he would go for walks. So we stood outside his home on the public sidewalk, I remember it was cold or at least chilly. We were off to one side, he walked the other way and my dad greeted him. Like said, good morning Mr. President or something, and I remember him turning around and waving at us before going on with his walk.
I am related to President Truman, and my Grandma always said that he prayed and cried almost everynight for guidance in his decisions. I don't think any amount of $ would pay me to have taken his place in office. Bless his heart. Hey Jim, are you any relation to William (of the 'Wild Bill Cody') fame? If so, I know one of your relatives, but his line has their name spelled Cooty.
@@WhispersFromTheDark on my father's side of the family. John and Issac Cody who were from North Carolina. A lot of my descendants moved to Canada and Iowa. The Cody name is spelled differently throughout the early years. Everything from Coty, Cody to Coody. Thing is once you start doing research you discover so many relatives you had no idea who they were. I have relatives from the Etowah Cherokee Tribe. Kin folks related to President Andrew Johnson . The list goes on and on.
Can we just imagine what Truman must have thought when he had, not only inherited the presidency very suddenly, and losing a friend but then discovering said friend had been a part of designing, fabricating, etc, 2 atomic bombs... This was a great video, JD.
My daughter and I went to three Presidential Museums the first week of June. Hoover, Truman and General Eisenhower’s. Truman’s was by far the best of the three. Unfortunately the material condition of Ike’s is not very good. Truman’s was very modern and utilized technology to great effect. It’s an excellent museum. His personal office at the museum was a real highlight for me.
My family and I visited the library in about 1970. Then, we went to his home. Truman was still living at the time. There was a wrought iron fence around it, but no Secret Service agents. It is in a regular neighborhood. The guy across the street was mowing his lawn. There was a window fan operating in one of the windows. My sister and I shouted, "Hello, Mr. President," a few times. Because of the window fan, we assumed he was inside, but no one came out or opened the door.
I went to middle school and Pres. Truman’s house was right behind it. I would see him out in his hat and coat carrying his cane taking a walk around the block. I then attended Truman High school and we sang at the opening of his library. What a great Missourian. I do wonder why he had a corn on the cob encased in resin on top of his TV in the Oval Office replica though? 😂
What I if told you Washington is also misspelled (26:01) ? Totally just taking the Mick. JD, you're an absolute rock-star and I love all your videos. Great work as usual and I look forward to your next upload. Cheers from Canada.
Been to Truman library and others. For some reason I kind of, suprisingly to me, thought the Truman Library and Museum was the best. Simple and matter of fact. Another fine report. Keep Teaveling.
I remember my parents taking me to the museum and showing me the grave shortly after he was interred. The inscribed granite lid was not in place yet and I remember seeing the fresh grave covered in flowers.
You know that letter he received from the father with the purple heart just cut him to his core, he kept it, that says it all. As with a good number of former presidents years after they have left office the true accomplishments during their time in office finally are brought forward to the public and the countries respect for this man grew. Quite a good man...
Hi, loved the video, but I just have to make a slight correction Bolívar was the liberator of northern South America, not central America, while San Martin is of southern South America. Thank you for showing the portraits, I never knew Truman was a Bolivar fan, greetings from a Venezuelan in Colombia.
Excellent video once again. I have learned so much about Truman during this video than in my high school history class (40 some years ago). Thank you for letting us join you on your history journey!
I live a block and a half away from the Library. On N Delaware directly across Hwy 24. Yes, an extensive upgrade was completed last year. Great video of the 33rd President. Glad you came to Independence MO JD!
I have been interested in President Truman, ever since I became an adult and realized just how close I was to hearing some family conversations between my Grandma and Bess and Margaret. I remember when I was a Kid and we went to west Texas (Memphis) to stay a week of our vacation with Grandma, she would tell my Mom about the last time she spoke to Bess or Margaret on the phone. I remember one time she was telling my Mom about a phone call and I was being a typical Kid and wanting my Moms attention instead, and my Mom stopped what she was doing and asked me if I knew who my Grandma was talking about and I said no. Then Mom proceeded to tell me that she was talking about the latest phone call from President Truman's Wife Bess and where Margaret was traveling to. As a Kid that still didn't impress me much, but as an adult I wish I had listened and took notes. Oh well....they say 'hinesight is 20/20' so what can you expect from a 10 year old Kid? Rest in peace President Truman, Margaret and Bess. You are not forgotten.
J D..... What an historic vlog. The haberdasher that made two of the greatest decisions ever made by an individual. He saved many American lives by making this decision. How is your son Eric?
Another excellent video thanks for sharing that experience, that man truly had the world placed on his shoulders. Look forward to your next one take care.
I thoroughly enjoy your videos. It was always my desire to visit the homes of all our Presidents. I am far too old to do so now so I am enjoying doing so vicariously through your videos. ONE TIP: One your next trip through Kansas on I-70 make it a point to go see "The Garden of Eden" in Lucas Kansas. (You take the Wilson exit.) Make it a point to take the paid tour. When you pull up you will think I sold you a bill of goods. I promise you will thank me after the tour. It is truly something to see. I sure hope you see this message.
Even though Truman was in the pockets of Pendergast Crime boss in Kansas City - you have to have respect for the man. He was a straight shooter and didn't put up with BS....Gotta love the picture of Truman at the Elms Hotel - holding the article that Dewy Defeats Truman - Love it!!
Had the chance to visit the Truman House and Noland House this past weekend...will have to come back to do the library and museum. The house tour is fun but no photos allowed in the Truman House. Had to come see if you had a video when I got home!
That WWI Museum was a wonderful experience to understand its importance and its relevance to today. I’d love to return someday and take my family. The Truman Exhibits were equally striking.
When I was a little girl my father would get us in the car of an evening and we would drive from our home in Belton to Independence just to look around. But we would drive by the Truman home and the President would be sitting in his wing back chair right in the front window reading. That is something that I will never forget. Did they in the museum tell the story about Truman’s Grandmother. She lived though the Civil War and was for the South. But he came home in his blue uniform and she had a fit with that. One more thing I have been to the museum several times but I never knew that about “The buck stops here sign.”
The bottom line is I would not nor should Americans ever apologize for the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. We did not ask the Japanese to bomb Pearl Harbor. We did not ask the Japanese to declare war against us. So, we had to go get them. And get them we did. To invade Japan would have been a horrific event. Who knows how many American lives would have been lost. We were already on our way to 500,000 Americans dead in WWII. We did not or could not have 500,000 more dead in Japan. We had to do what we had to do. No apologizes ever. We had to do what we had to do to end the war that we did not ask for. The Japanese and Germans wanted us in the war. The absolute worst mistakes of their lives. We did not start WWII. We sure as hell ended it.
One of our greatest and best presidents this country has had the privilege to have him as our president truly a great man strong and intelligent and honest
Great Video! JD, I'm always learning something when I watch your videos. You also inspire me to do research..... Gerald R. Ford is buried in Grand Rapids Michigan and he just happens to have a museum as well. On top of that there is a Hero's Museum in Frankenmuth Michigan. You ever get close to any of these, contact me, would love to meet up!
My dad said that he was making a delivery to the Truman Library sometime in the late 1960s, and as he entered the building there was an older gentleman playing President Truman's piano in the lobby. He thought nothing of it until the librarian said, "He likes to come over and play HIS piano". Only then did he notice it was President Truman.
Wow!
Thats dope as hell. Just walk in your own library an play your piano. Lmfao
Hey! I’m Jeff from West Virginia! It was great meeting you that day, and you definitely did add me to this video! Thanks again, and I hope to run into you again on one of your history travels. Great work!
Hey Jeff! It was good meeting you and having the chance to chat for a bit. Hope that the rest of your trip went well.
I just saw he gave you a big shout-out. I'm from a small town close to Huntington in Cabell County.
Sometimes being at the the right place at the right time pays off.
West by God! Born and raised!
Hi Jeff! 👋🏻 from the WV hills myself
My father was a US Marine in WWII in 1945, he served on a converted aircraft carrier and was a mechanic on the Corsairs fighters. Truman was his favorite president saying his decision to use the atomic bomb saved his life.
I believe my great grandpa was in ww2 as well truman probably saved his life too Id have to ask my grandma were all he served an what branch he served in my great grandpa unfortunately died in the 70's due to a heart attack. Ive had a few family members severed so as u can only imagine its hard to keep what it especially when they died way before u was born.
Great episode! The Kansas City area is lucky to have such an important museum located in the area. Another stop in the Kansas City area that has a tie-in with President Truman is the National WWI Museum.
When the war ended in Europe, my dad was awaiting movement in preparation of the invasion of Japan. As his division, the 99th, had landed in France in August of 1944, he and most of the other personnel in the division, did not have enough “points” to be rotated home. As a veteran infantry division, the men of the 99th were waiting for orders to move to the Pacific.
Dad always said, the reason Truman won the 1948 election, was that those veterans waiting for the invasion of Japan voted for him. It was a terrible decision to make but saved thousands of American lives and thousands of Japanese lives, too.
I attended the opening of the Truman Library, and Truman's funeral. You've done an excellent job of consolidating his life and career. Thanks!
Thanks!
My husband was an Indep policeman when Truman was in his final illness. We heard after his death that he told someone that if he died on Christmas day, to delay the announcement until the next day. He did not want to disturb the police, etc. Christmas holiday.
I visited this site on a middle school trip. President Truman came to the auditorium to take questions. I visited again to give my respects when he lay in state after his death.
Thank you for this video and for your commentary. I grew up in Independence and in my senior year of high school was able to shake hands with President Truman. One of our cadets received an award so we did a ceremony on the William Chrisman High School football field where President Truman made the presentation with the cadets in formation of the field. After the award presentation, President Truman and the other senior guests reviewed the formation and President Truman shook hands with each cadet officer and congratulated us on our decorations. It was a real honor for a seventeen year old high school kid.
My great uncle was killed in the battles of the reservoir in December of 1950. He was barley 20 years old and had lied about his age to join the service. I’ve met one surviving vet from that battle who knew my uncle and he said the last time he saw Donny he was storming Chinese tanks with 3 other men with nothing more than their rifles and hand grenades. He was never seen again. It took 25 years of research and working with the DPAA to locate his remains and he was finally returned home and buried next to his father on Veterans Day 2017. RIP to all who never came home
Oh man. Quite the ordeal that those men endured.
My step grandfather was in Korea too, but he was in the Marine Corps, I'm not sure where he would have been, but that's as much as he would say about it.
My dad was a WWII vet. Was in the 31st infantry Philippines in 1936. Out in 1940 (missed the Battan death march). Back in after Pearl. Was in charge of a part of the China supply lines in the CBI theater at a Wearhouse in northeast India. Supplying the planes going over the hump and later the Stillwell Road. Thanks for all you do!
"There is nothing new in the world except the history you do not know." - Harry S. Truman
My dad visited the Truman Library in 1958 with his scout troop on their way to Philmont Ranch and the President happened to be there that day.
Wow!
@@TheHistoryUnderground I really enjoy your videos, especially those at Gettysburg (I live about 90 miles from there in Lewistown, PA). One interesting artifact we have in town is at the base of our Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Monument Square, a stone from President Lincoln's tomb.
It’s truly amazing that Truman was kept in the dark about the Manhattan project. Maybe at the time Roosevelt didn’t realize how significant the bomb would be. I’m truly not sure what Roosevelts thoughts were, as to when he would give the order to drop the bomb. Truman was able to pick right up on its capability and shorten the war. My father-in-law who was still in Europe as a surgeon said his biggest fear was being sent to the Pacific. He believed that using the bomb, significantly shortened the war.
When my wife was a little girl, she lived in KC. One day they visited Independence & saw Pre. Truman walking his dog!
Another way to describe Harry Truman is the only president to save millions of lives - civilian and military by making one of the most difficult and significant decisions in world history. Thanks for the tour.
👍🏻
He's a war criminal who killed thousands of innocent people, tf you talkin about
@@Gian04 Okay, back to history class or, probably to class for the first time. "Saved millions of lives" by NOT moving forward with a full-scale land invasion. And, that's how we learn.
The plug from the "Fat Man" bomb really hit me. The Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombing were a tragedy of American history; however, what many don't realize is that the models show those bombs actually saved more lives that they took! Japan was never going to back down until something like this him their homeland. I am a living testament to that stat. My grandfather was on a ship heading to the invasion of Japan when they were turned around due to the Nagasaki bomb. His unit was told that 80% of them would not even survive the initial invasion. My mother would have most likely would have never been born, hence the family line would have ended in Okinawa. While this may seem selfish, the fact is, these horrific bombings put an end to what seemed like a never ending war. Thank you President Truman for saving my grandfather's life!
A terrible weapon that saved both American and Japanese lives.
His time in office was definitely not an easy one. Like you said, you only scratched the surface, but I learned a few things too. Thanks for the video 👍
Truman was exempt from the 22nd Amendment in 1952.
My dad, who was in the US Army in the infantry in WW2, spent his life as a staunch Republican but he always kept a good thought of HST. Dad had boarded a troop ship bound for the Pacific after fighting from southern France to Stuttgart. When the news of the bombs ended the war in the Pacific came, they turned the ship toward NYC which was a great relief to all on board.
I bet. He probably saved my great grandfathers life too... Thank god aint no telling if id be here today. Im not sure when he had my grandma because my great grandmother had mostly boys. An aint none of them had kids that im aware of so i literally almost wouldn't have been born. For that truman will be always in high regards with me man.
I leave you with this….”You can’t get rich in politics unless you’re a crook.” -Harry S. Truman.
Another great video. I may be biased, living in St. Louis 😁😎.
Truman held two ranks simultaneously, a captain in the Missouri National Guard and a colonel in the army reserves.
I just recently finished David McCullough’s biography on President Truman…very long read but also very interesting story. His first 4 months in office was filled with more crazy moments in our history than several presidents combined. Also highly recommend the book, Accidental President: Harry S Truman and the Four Months That Changed the World…was a great book for any history buff out there.
I would also recommend "The Buck Stops Here", Truman's personal essays and writings compiled by his daughter Margaret in the 1980s. Truman stipulated that they could not be published until both he and Bess were gone. There was one entire chapter called, "Why I Don't Like Ike".
Another fantastic video delivered with the upmost respect by a very knowledgeable and caring man. Thank you so much! ❤️🇺🇲❤️🇺🇲❤️
Well done JD. Just like everything you do on here. I’m sure the majority of people on here appreciate your hard work as much as I do. Cait wait for the next adventure.
🙏🏼
EDIT: At the 22:28 mark, I absentmindedly refer to Truman's desk as "the Resolute Desk", which was an error. Truman used the Theodore Roosevelt desk. Apologies.
If you've watched a few episodes and feel like I've earned it, be sure to subscribe so that you don't miss any new content when it comes out.
Also be sure to check out The Gettysburg Museum of History and their store at www.gettysburgmuseumofhistory.com. Thanks!
Truman is why Japan signed the surrender on the USS Missouri. There were far more decorated ships to have done it on at the time
I have tremendous respect for this man. I just realized that from the time he drew his first breath till the time he drew his last, there were 5 conflicts (6 if you count the Cold War.); 2 on a major scale.
I can’t help but wonder how torn up he got over that Purple Heart letter; considering how very throughly he knew war.
That letter is heavy.
He kept that letter and the medal in his desk in the top right (I believe) drawer for the remainder of his life. He wasn’t a man to second guess himself, but I am sure there were times when he hoped another decision was possible. We can thank McArthur’s hubris in no small part for the escalation of that war.
In school (1970's) we did not learn much about Truman. He was just a name on a list. I ran across a history book in the library written by Margaret Truman. She was such a good writer that I looked into her bio. She was her father's daughter to be sure. Through learning about her I learned about her father who, as usual, seems to be one of the most under-appreciated presidents. A great man who did great things without a lot of fanfare.
I can still recall visiting this museum back when I was in elementary school in the 1980s. I have visited it again more recently in the last several years and can say that its exhibits have certainly become more interactive and tactile. The Kansas City Metro certainly has some great museums that are far too often overlooked. The Steamboat Arabia Museum is another one that needs to be on your list. Great work once again History Underground!
Thanks! Definitely want to get to the Arabia.
I visited the Truman library and museum in 2016. When I saw the plug from the bomb, it rocked me back on my feet. One of my math professors had been a sailor on Tinian Island and had watched the Enola Gay take off, altho no one on the island knew what was up at the time. That was the beginning of the flight. Linking in the end result of the flight, I also knew a woman who had survived the bombing. She was 12 at the time. Seeing the plug tied in a part of the weapon that vaporized her father, nearly killed her, and ended the war. I've always had extremely mixed feelings about those bombs. I knew many WW2 veterans who had been slated to invade Japan and felt they would die in the attempt. Even decades later, their relief at not going was palpable. On the other hand, my friend told me that she and her 12 year old girl schoolmates were being trained on how to use bamboo spears to fight if there was an invasion. Bomb or no bomb, each would have been, or was, horrific. There are no winners in war. Let us pray for peace.
Alot of Americans would've been mad if they found out about the weapons an they still sent our boys to potentially die. If it wont for truman dropping that bomb i dont know if id be here my great grandpa was served. He had alot of sons i think he had one daughter. My grandma an didnt none of my great uncles had kids that im aware of... So i understand having mixed emotions but please remember alot of Americans probably wouldnt be alive today an they way japan fought on the island they took from us an things man i think its likely a invasion would've been worse for everyone. I hope we dont use them again but man if i can save American lives with a bomb id probably make the same choice. I couldn't imagine sending men to go fight when i got a weapon that could end it.... Id feel like that would be intentionally murdering Americans an i dont think I could live with that on my conscience...
Wow! Humbling lesson on the back side of the buck stops here sign. He knew the importance of remembering his roots. Remembering where we came from matters…even today. Great video JD. Thank you. Blessings and safe travels.
Yeah, I thought that that was really neat.
I hope you had the opportunity to visit his home where he and Bess lived and the other houses in his neighborhood. It was so interesting to be able to go into his home and see where he and Bess lived out their years. You can also see his car sitting in his garage! One of my favorite presidential houses to see and visit. Thanks for this posting!
Unfortunately, it was closed the day that I was there. Good excuse to come back. 🙂
Reference my earlier comment about getting to shake the president's hand, the Truman home tour is also excellent. His overcoat is still hanging in the entry at the front of the house. I suspect it is the same one he wore on that chilly day in September of 1961.
I attest to how wonderful the home is!
Outstanding history lesson. Visiting every president's grave is also one of my quest. Great video. 🇺🇸
He was also our last "farmer President", and though a voracious reader (especially of history), was our last President to not have a college degree. You also passed over how he overcame his initial dismissal as "the Senator from Pendergast" by leading the "Truman Committee" investigations into graft early in WWII.
Great video!! I have the same goal man! I’ve been to 25 of the 39 Presidential graves & can’t wait to go see more! I’ve been to 5 presidential libraries & Truman’s was probably my 2nd favorite of all of them behind Reagan’s
I really like also how the whole town has kept the history of Truman alive
You were about 6 miles from my home. My parents both moved to Independence in the 1940s. Dad delivered ice to the Truman home during World War II, and as an Independence Police Officer, frequently served as security for Mr. Truman during the 1950s.
Interesting!
From what I know, after Harry left the Oval Office, all that he had for income was a Military Reserve pension of $112.40 (nowadays - $1150). With his memoirs - he earned $670,000. It wasn't until 1958 that he started to receive an annual pension of $25,500 having been President.
Different times, for sure.
How it should be in all honesty
My wife and I just visited the Truman Home and Presidential Library and Museum today. Both of us were very impressed!
Awesome!
Great vid! I always admired Harry Truman. A very underrated president for sure
All of your videos are priceless. You put so much into doing them. I hope to meet you in your travels oneday.
Thank you!
Great video. The town I grew up in was where the Truman family farm. Bess Truman family farm was next door. His daughter and son in law are buried there too.
One of my earliest childhood memories is saying hello to him, it must have been the fall before he passed away. We lived in independence and my dad wanted me and my brother to be able to say we met him, and everyone knew he would go for walks. So we stood outside his home on the public sidewalk, I remember it was cold or at least chilly. We were off to one side, he walked the other way and my dad greeted him. Like said, good morning Mr. President or something, and I remember him turning around and waving at us before going on with his walk.
This was Amazing on President Truman. I learned so much on WW2 with Him. Thank You So Much!!😊💖👍
Great museum & library!
Amazing man and a Amazing history, I can't imagine the decisions placed on his shoulders. Very interesting video.
I am related to President Truman, and my Grandma always said that he prayed and cried almost everynight for guidance in his decisions. I don't think any amount of $ would pay me to have taken his place in office. Bless his heart. Hey Jim, are you any relation to William (of the 'Wild Bill Cody') fame? If so, I know one of your relatives, but his line has their name spelled Cooty.
@@WhispersFromTheDark on my father's side of the family. John and Issac Cody who were from North Carolina. A lot of my descendants moved to Canada and Iowa. The Cody name is spelled differently throughout the early years. Everything from Coty, Cody to Coody. Thing is once you start doing research you discover so many relatives you had no idea who they were. I have relatives from the Etowah Cherokee Tribe. Kin folks related to President Andrew Johnson . The list goes on and on.
"Fluid falling from the sky" 🤣 Love it! The history lessons are absolutely wonderful, but the humor that often comes through makes it even better.
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Give 'em Hell! Thanks for a great video. Truman is one of my favorite Presidents. Good luck on your journey.
Well done JD. Thanks for what you do and inviting us along. Stay safe.
Can we just imagine what Truman must have thought when he had, not only inherited the presidency very suddenly, and losing a friend but then discovering said friend had been a part of designing, fabricating, etc, 2 atomic bombs...
This was a great video, JD.
Actually it was 3 atomic bombs. Trinity being the test of the nuclear device and the ones dropped on Nagasaki and Hiroshima.
My daughter and I went to three Presidential Museums the first week of June. Hoover, Truman and General Eisenhower’s. Truman’s was by far the best of the three. Unfortunately the material condition of Ike’s is not very good. Truman’s was very modern and utilized technology to great effect. It’s an excellent museum. His personal office at the museum was a real highlight for me.
My family and I visited the library in about 1970. Then, we went to his home. Truman was still living at the time. There was a wrought iron fence around it, but no Secret Service agents. It is in a regular neighborhood. The guy across the street was mowing his lawn. There was a window fan operating in one of the windows. My sister and I shouted, "Hello, Mr. President," a few times. Because of the window fan, we assumed he was inside, but no one came out or opened the door.
In my view, he is probably the most honorable president of all due to saving so many lives, god bless Harry S Truman and his family!
I went to middle school and Pres. Truman’s house was right behind it. I would see him out in his hat and coat carrying his cane taking a walk around the block. I then attended Truman High school and we sang at the opening of his library. What a great Missourian. I do wonder why he had a corn on the cob encased in resin on top of his TV in the Oval Office replica though? 😂
I went to the museum several years ago. It was great then. I also visited the Eisenhower Library and grave site. Another powerful place to visit.
What I if told you Washington is also misspelled (26:01) ? Totally just taking the Mick. JD, you're an absolute rock-star and I love all your videos. Great work as usual and I look forward to your next upload. Cheers from Canada.
Great episode JD. We learned a little more about this president & the tough challenges he faced. Keep up the excellent work!
Thanks 🙏🏼
Been to Truman library and others. For some reason I kind of, suprisingly to me, thought the Truman Library and Museum was the best. Simple and matter of fact. Another fine report. Keep Teaveling.
Truman him self work at the museum. I think that why its the best you can see the hard work he did there.
that was so interesting. I always forget about his WWI service. He really was an extraordinary gentleman.
Very much so.
I remember my parents taking me to the museum and showing me the grave shortly after he was interred. The inscribed granite lid was not in place yet and I remember seeing the fresh grave covered in flowers.
What an interesting man. Wonderful museum!
Thanks JD for the real Truman show.
You know that letter he received from the father with the purple heart just cut him to his core, he kept it, that says it all. As with a good number of former presidents years after they have left office the true accomplishments during their time in office finally are brought forward to the public and the countries respect for this man grew. Quite a good man...
Hi, loved the video, but I just have to make a slight correction Bolívar was the liberator of northern South America, not central America, while San Martin is of southern South America. Thank you for showing the portraits, I never knew Truman was a Bolivar fan, greetings from a Venezuelan in Colombia.
Love the Truman library.
That was cool, learned things about Truman I didn't know. He was president when I was born, this gave me an idea of what was happening then. 👍
Excellent video once again. I have learned so much about Truman during this video than in my high school history class (40 some years ago). Thank you for letting us join you on your history journey!
Thanks!
I live a block and a half away from the Library. On N Delaware directly across Hwy 24. Yes, an extensive upgrade was completed last year. Great video of the 33rd President. Glad you came to Independence MO JD!
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Love the video, 👏👏as ever outstanding narration as always, keep up the great work, happy fathers’s day
I have been interested in President Truman, ever since I became an adult and realized just how close I was to hearing some family conversations between my Grandma and Bess and Margaret. I remember when I was a Kid and we went to west Texas (Memphis) to stay a week of our vacation with Grandma, she would tell my Mom about the last time she spoke to Bess or Margaret on the phone. I remember one time she was telling my Mom about a phone call and I was being a typical Kid and wanting my Moms attention instead, and my Mom stopped what she was doing and asked me if I knew who my Grandma was talking about and I said no. Then Mom proceeded to tell me that she was talking about the latest phone call from President Truman's Wife Bess and where Margaret was traveling to. As a Kid that still didn't impress me much, but as an adult I wish I had listened and took notes. Oh well....they say 'hinesight is 20/20' so what can you expect from a 10 year old Kid? Rest in peace President Truman, Margaret and Bess. You are not forgotten.
J D..... What an historic vlog. The haberdasher that made two of the greatest decisions ever made by an individual. He saved many American lives by making this decision. How is your son Eric?
Another excellent video thanks for sharing that experience, that man truly had the world placed on his shoulders. Look forward to your next one take care.
I appreciate you showing all these places that I most probably will never have the opportunity to visit. Another excellent video as always. Thanks
I thoroughly enjoy your videos.
It was always my desire to visit the homes of all our Presidents. I am far too old to do so now so I am enjoying doing so vicariously through your videos.
ONE TIP: One your next trip through Kansas on I-70 make it a point to go see "The Garden of Eden" in Lucas Kansas. (You take the Wilson exit.) Make it a point to take the paid tour. When you pull up you will think I sold you a bill of goods. I promise you will thank me after the tour. It is truly something to see.
I sure hope you see this message.
Even though Truman was in the pockets of Pendergast Crime boss in Kansas City - you have to have respect for the man. He was a straight shooter and didn't put up with BS....Gotta love the picture of Truman at the Elms Hotel - holding the article that Dewy Defeats Truman - Love it!!
Crazy , that safety plug survived all these years without getting lost. Be interesting to hear the story of that item.
Had the chance to visit the Truman House and Noland House this past weekend...will have to come back to do the library and museum. The house tour is fun but no photos allowed in the Truman House. Had to come see if you had a video when I got home!
Your channel is so very wonderful. I truly enjoy each and every one you post. Thank you !
Thanks 🙏🏼
That WWI Museum was a wonderful experience to understand its importance and its relevance to today. I’d love to return someday and take my family.
The Truman Exhibits were equally striking.
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When I was a little girl my father would get us in the car of an evening and we would drive from our home in Belton to Independence just to look around. But we would drive by the Truman home and the President would be sitting in his wing back chair right in the front window reading. That is something that I will never forget. Did they in the museum tell the story about Truman’s Grandmother. She lived though the Civil War and was for the South. But he came home in his blue uniform and she had a fit with that.
One more thing I have been to the museum several times but I never knew that about “The buck stops here sign.”
Wow! As far as the story of his grandmother, I didn’t see that.
Awesome! Hope you make it to the Eisenhower museum and library soon!
Would love that!
JD I have enjoyed your trip Missouri. This trip is now on my bucket list.
Great video… so interesting. Happy Father’s Day…
Been to the Truman Library twice. Totally fascinating! Great video...thanks!
man that place has changed alot ,,,, i been to his home and there ... now i want to go back before i pass on .. ty for showing the changes ....
Harry Truman was a good president, he did a good job, my respects to the United States and Japan
Greetings from Lima, Perú
The bottom line is I would not nor should Americans ever apologize for the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. We did not ask the Japanese to bomb Pearl Harbor. We did not ask the Japanese to declare war against us. So, we had to go get them. And get them we did. To invade Japan would have been a horrific event. Who knows how many American lives would have been lost. We were already on our way to 500,000 Americans dead in WWII. We did not or could not have 500,000 more dead in Japan. We had to do what we had to do. No apologizes ever. We had to do what we had to do to end the war that we did not ask for. The Japanese and Germans wanted us in the war. The absolute worst mistakes of their lives. We did not start WWII. We sure as hell ended it.
I went to this museum as a kid. Totally different now. I think they had the Buck Stops Here placard on his desk.
Wonderful video! I forgot what all he did. He took on a lot. Thank you for sharing this.
Another great video! I love these presidential museums. 👍🏻☺️
Learned a lot from this video! Excellent as always!
Thank you! I learned a lot there myself.
I enjoy going to presidential libraries as I have traveled this country. Great Job again. keep up the good work.
Great Video! I watched it all over again!
Thanks 🙏🏼
Excellent video! Looks like they misspelled Washington on that briefcase too. Ha ha! Love finding those kinds of things! Thanks JD!
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One of our greatest and best presidents this country has had the privilege to have him as our president truly a great man strong and intelligent and honest
Just a small FYI Truman used the Theodore Roosevelt desk and not the Resolute desk ask you said in the Oval Office part. Otherwise great video
The B-29 Boxscar is at the U. S. Air Force Museum in Dayton Ohio. Its at a museum you need to check out. Plan least 3-4 days go thru the whole museum.
Happy Father's Day JD and all fathers in the comment section. Very interesting museum of Harry S. Truman.
Thanks!
Was just there for the first time last week. Great place, great man
Agreed.
Wonderful video, JD! My wife and I will be visiting this venue in September. Our first visit....
Great Video! JD, I'm always learning something when I watch your videos. You also inspire me to do research..... Gerald R. Ford is buried in Grand Rapids Michigan and he just happens to have a museum as well. On top of that there is a Hero's Museum in Frankenmuth Michigan. You ever get close to any of these, contact me, would love to meet up!
Well done! You are an awesome narrator!
Thanks!
Thank you for coming here.
Absolutely. Love that place!