Truman

What sources does McCullough use to weave the story of Truman’s life and how does his choice of sources shape his narrative?

Truman described the First World War as a major turning point in his life. How did his experience in the war shape his personality and leadership style?

What was the background of the Truman family? How did this background shape Harry Truman’s character and values?

The author discusses in detail and examines some of the debates regarding Truman’s decision to drop atomic bombs in August 1945. What are the major scholarly controversies surrounding Truman’s decisions? Do you agree with McCullough’s interpretation of events?

Truman was Franklin D. Roosevelt’s vice president and replaced him when Roosevelt died in April 1945. Describe the relationship between the two leaders. How and why does the author compare them?

What was Truman’s strategy in the 1948 Presidential election? Who were his opponents, and what were the major political issues? What is the significance of Truman’s reelection?

Describe the relationship between Harry and Bess Truman from childhood to his rise to the highest level of power. What sources does McCullough use to examine it and why?

What is the Truman Doctrine? Who were its architects, and what is its significance?