LAD #34- Truman Doctrine

Truman Doctrine
March 12, 1947
Summary:

The national security of the nation would soon become involved in the situations in both Greece and Turkey, as the former of the two had sent an appeal seeking financial aid and assistance, having had to work indefinitely from the beginning to make ends met. President Truman did not believe that his country would turn its back to the Greeks at this time. The Germans had virtually destroyed most of the country during the second World War along with the livestock, leading to inflation in the country. Greece would need aid in importing goods for political and economic recovery.

However Greece was faced with the threat of spreading Communism, something that did not bode well with the United States, and democratic America could end up being Greece's last resort. Turkey was also faced with poor circumstances and required aid, and President Truman concluded that the United States was the only nation that could give that aid.

By aiding both Eastern European nations the United States could free these people from being forced into a Communist regime and assist them in bettering their nations as a whole. Communism went against all American beliefs, and the downfall of Greece to this form of government would lead to the deterioration of the freedoms of surrounding countries.

Truman asked Congress to back his proposal in offering support to both nations to protect both freedoms and to equally share their international responsibilities.