AI-powered
podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Past Present Future
What If… Wallace not Truman Had Become US President in 1945?
Aug 15, 2024
Historian Benn Steil dives into the compelling narrative of Henry Wallace, an ultraliberal who nearly became FDR's running mate in 1944. They discuss the chaotic Democratic National Convention and the political machinations that sidelined Wallace. What if he had succeeded instead of Truman? Steil reflects on how his presidency might have shifted U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War and nuclear arms race, sparking debate over whether Truman's win was a fortunate escape or a missed opportunity for progressive change.
01:02:48
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Henry Wallace's unique combination of scientific expertise and mystical tendencies distinguished him from traditional politicians in American history.
- The tumultuous dynamics during the 1944 Democratic Convention highlight the complex interplay between grassroots support and elite decision-making in party politics.
Deep dives
Henry Wallace's Rise in Politics
Henry Wallace's ascension to politics began when he was chosen by Franklin Roosevelt as his running mate in 1940, although he was not FDR's initial choices. Roosevelt's first preference, Cordell Hull, declined the position, and his second choice, Jimmy Burns, was perceived as too controversial due to religious concerns. Ultimately, Wallace was seen as a suitable candidate to appeal to the left wing of the Democratic Party and bolster support in agricultural sectors due to his background as an agricultural secretary. However, after the election, Wallace's contribution to the ticket was underwhelming, specifically in the farm states where he failed to deliver significant support.
Get the Snipd
podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered
Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any
moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share
& Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered
podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode