Chris Stirewalt hosts Benn Steil to discuss Henry Wallace's controversial legacy, Soviet influence in US policies, Wallace's bizarre decisions like slaughtering pigs, and his transition to endorse Eisenhower. They explore parallels in attitudes towards Russia and the Soviet Union, drawing comparisons between past and present views on authoritarian leaders.
Henry Wallace's controversial beliefs and evolving political ideologies shaped his tenure in FDR's administration.
Henry Wallace's shifting ideological beliefs, from anti-Communist sentiments to supporting Stalin's policies, showcased significant political transformation.
Deep dives
Henry Wallace's Controversies and Political Views
Henry Wallace played a significant role in FDR's administrations, particularly as agriculture secretary from 1933 to 1940. His controversial nature arose from his perceived extreme left-wing ideologies and unconventional beliefs like astrology and theosophy. Despite being initially known for his mystic and dangerous religious views, Wallace evolved politically, embracing progressive ideas like civil rights advocacy and bold policies against racism and segregation.
Wallace's Shift in Political Trends and Worldviews
Initially viewed as a Soviet sympathizer, Henry Wallace's political evolution showcased shifts in his ideological beliefs. From his early anti-Communist stance to supporting Stalin's economic policies, particularly agricultural collectivization, Wallace's views transformed radically over time. Embracing concepts of 'economic democracy,' he distanced himself from orthodox Democratic politics to align more closely with progressive ideals and peaceful collaboration between nations.
Wallace's Influence on American Agricultural Policy and Legacy
Henry Wallace's tenure significantly impacted American agricultural policy, both positively and controversially. His experimental approaches, including subsidies for farm programs and bold economic decisions, aimed at reshaping the agriculture sector. However, his polarizing strategies, such as the mass slaughter of pigs to stabilize prices, garnered criticism and fueled further controversies. This legacy of agricultural policy, marked by vast subsidies and experimental interventions, shaped the future trajectory of American farming.
The Cold War Potential Under Wallace's Presidency
Had Henry Wallace assumed the presidency, his policy stances could have significantly altered the course of history, particularly regarding the Cold War. Wallace's opposition to the Marshall Plan and potential Soviet-friendly initiatives suggested a different approach to post-war geopolitics. His inclination towards giving substantial aid to Soviet reconstruction indicated a potential shift in global power dynamics, raising concerns about his ability to navigate key international relationships effectively.
With Jonah still MIA, Chris Stirewalt returns as Remnant guest host extraordinaire, joined by Benn Steil, director of international economics at the Council on Foreign Relations, to discuss Steil’s latest book and determine if the bizarreHenry Wallace was a noble man of the soil, an unsophisticated victim, or vindictive villain. To determine how Wallace changed the course of history, Stirewalt and Steil discuss the Soviet Union’s duping of an Einsteinian genius, the cult of Nicholas Roerich, and why you should never slaughter 6 million pigs.
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