The United States presidential election of 1948 was the 41st presidential election, it was held on Tuesday, November 2, 1948. This election is considered to be the greatest election upset in American History. Every prediction indicated that Truman would be defeated by Dewey.
Truman won, overcoming a three-way split in his own party. Truman's surprise victory was the fifth consecutive presidential win for the Democratic Party, a record never surpassed since contests against the Republican Party began in the 1850s. As a result of the 1948 congressional election, the Democrats would regain control of both houses of Congress. Thus, Truman's election confirmed the Democratic Party's status as the nation's majority party, a status they would retain until 1952.
Interesting Facts:
- Truman's middle initial does not stand for a name, both his grandfathers had S's in their names.
- He only served 82 days of his vice presidential term before becoming President.
- He got to meet the Queen of England.
- Truman's inauguration for his second term was the first to be shown on TV.
- there was two men by the names of Griselio Torresola and Oscar Collazo tried to assassinate the President.
- There is a balcony at the white house named after Truman.
- His poor eyesight prevented Truman from participating in sports but led him to two of his greatest passions, reading and music.
- He served in the military during WW I. He was a captain in a artillery unit. He was also the first president to take office during war time.
- Harry Truman owned a men's clothing store with some other men. The store went bankrupt in 1921. He also failed as a farmer.
Comments
Good summary but be sure to add personal thoughts.