#OTD20 | November 2, 1948
Harry Truman’s Astonishing Re-Election Victory
November 2, 1948: Against overwhelming odds and widespread skepticism, President Harry Truman pulls off an amazing political upset.
Against the backdrop of a tumultuous first term marked by the end of World War II and the beginning of the Cold War, Truman's chances for re-election seemed slim to most political pundits.
Despite numerous challenges and a popular rival in Thomas Dewey, Truman's relentless campaigning and ability to connect with the common man make all the difference on Election Day.
Truman's unexpected victory underscores the unpredictability of American politics. The triumph remains an iconic example of resilience, determination, and the sheer unpredictability of election outcomes.
Viewing Options
The 1948 election is chronicled in the Media Rich Learning program, "Post-War Years," from the series AMERICA IN THE 20TH CENTURY.
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#OTD20
Step back in time to experience the significant events that happened on this day in the 20th century.
September 15, 1916: First Use of Tanks in Combat
#OTD20 — September 15, 1916: History is made as military tanks roll into combat for the first time during the Battle of Flers-Courcelette, part of the Somme Offensive.
September 13, 1948: Margaret Chase Smith Elected to Senate
#OTD20 — September 10, 1948: Margaret Chase Smith is elected to the U.S. making her the first woman to serve in both chambers of Congress.
September 12, 1962: JFK Pledges “We Go to the Moon…”
#OTD20 — September 12, 1962: JFK delivers his “We Go to the Moon” address at Rice University, challenging the nation to land a man on the moon within the decade.
September 11, 1973: Coup Topples Government in Chile
#OTD20 — September 11, 1973: a military coup topples the democratically-elected government in Chile.
September 9, 1916. Woodrow Wilson Urges Patience on Women’s Suffrage
#OTD20 — September 9, 1916: President Woodrow Wilson speaks in Atlantic City, urging patience on the issue of women’s suffrage.
September 8, 1945. Korea Partitioned at 38th Parallel
#OTD20 — September 8, 1945: American troops arrive in Korea, initiating the division of the peninsula along the 38th parallel.
September 8, 1945: Huey “The Kingfish” Long Shot
#OTD20 — September 10, 1935: Senator Huey Long, a prominent figure during the Depression-era politics, is shot while at the Louisiana state capital in Baton Rouge.
September 7, 1940. Luftwaffe attacks. London Blitz Begins.
#OTD20 — September 7, 1940: The Blitz of London begins as the German Luftwaffe launches a devastating attack on the city. By day’s end, one thousand Londoners are dead.
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