Ascent to Power: How Truman Emerged from Roosevelt’s Shadow and Remade the World

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library
Independence, MO

Spanning the years of transition, 1944 to 1948, Ascent to Power illuminates Truman's struggles to emerge as president in his own right. Yet, from a relatively unknown Missouri senator to the most powerful man on Earth, Truman's legacy transcends. With his come-from-behind campaign in the fall of 1948, his courageous civil rights advocacy, and his role in liberating millions from militarist governments and brutal occupations, Truman's decisions during these pivotal years changed the course of the world in ways so significant we live with them today.

David L. Roll is the author of George Marshall and The Hopkins Touch, and the coauthor of Louis Johnson and the Arming of America (with Keith McFarland), a biography of Harry Truman’s defense secretary.

5:30pm Reception followed by a 6pm program in the auditorium.