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Lot #5078
Harry S. Truman

“I have, therefore, relieved General MacArthur of his commands”

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Estimate: $4000+
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Description

“I have, therefore, relieved General MacArthur of his commands”

Important press release, one page, 8 x 10.5, April 10, 1951. Mimeographed press release announcing his decision to relieve General Douglas MacArthur of command. In part: “With deep regret I have concluded that General of the Army Douglas MacArthur is unable to give his wholehearted support to the policies of the United States Government and of the United Nations in matters pertaining to his official duties. In view of the specific responsibilities imposed upon me by the Constitution of the United States and the added responsibility which has been entrusted to me by the United Nations, I have decided that I must make a change of command in the Far East. I have, therefore, relieved General MacArthur of his commands and have designated Lt. Gen. Matthew B. Ridgway as his successor.” Signed at the conclusion in fountain pen. In fine condition.

Following his success in World War II and in the rebuilding of Japan, MacArthur was made the commander of the forces defending South Korea in the Korean War. However, he disagreed with the way Truman was pursuing the war and continually made statements—public and private—that undermined the administration’s goals. Frustrated with this insubordination, Truman controversially chose to relieve MacArthur from duty for failing to respect the authority of the president. The move sparked controversy throughout the American public and cast a long shadow over American civil-military relations.

Ex. James Lowe, August 4, 1976. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Everett Fisher Collection
  • Dates: #472 - Ended March 17, 2016





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
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