The Life of Harry S. Truman: Childhood to Vice Presidency
Harry S. Truman was born in Missouri on May 8th, 1884. Harry Truman's parents could not decide who to dedicate Harry's middle name to, so they decided to S to honor both his material and paternal grandfather. He was raised on the family farm in Independence Missouri and did not attend college. After high school he worked a series of odd jobs, and then joined the National Guard. He volunteered for WWI, and was promoted as Captain in France. He was Captain of Battery D, which was know for being extremely unruly. He obtained their respect and admiration and lead them through heavily battling. After the war he came home and married his childhood sweetheart. He enter the business world, but it failed during the 1920's. He owed 20,000 dollars in debt, but instead of declaring bankruptcy he spent 15 years paying it off. He was then appoint to over-see of highways. He then ran to be a judge in Jackson county. Truman was elected into Senate in 1934 and served in the Senate Appropriations Committee. He initiated legislation that imposed tighter federal regulation on the railroad. This helped his established his reputation of a man of great integrity. Due to FDR's declining health, the Vice Presidential pick was very important. Truman's fiscally responsible choices, concern for citizens right made him a very good choice. He was at first very reluctant, but then accepted the position. After only 82 days in office FDR died, making Harry Truman President.