[POLITICS]. MARTIN, Joseph W. (1884-1968). Typed copy letter, as House Minority Leader, to General Douglas MacArthur. Washington, D.C., 8 March 1951.
Sale 1069 - American Historical Ephemera & Photography
Lots Open
Aug 19, 2022
Lots Close
Aug 30, 2022
Timed Online / Cincinnati
Lot Description
[POLITICS]. MARTIN, Joseph W. (1884-1968). Typed copy letter, as House Minority Leader, to General Douglas MacArthur. Washington, D.C., 8 March 1951.
1 page, 4to, on Office of the Minority Leader letterhead, with Martin's facsimile signature, some toning to paper's edge.
A copy of the infamous letter sent by Minority Leader, Congressman Joseph W. Martin, Jr. of Massachusetts to General Douglas MacArthur that led to MacArthur's removal from command. The war in Korea was going poorly and Seoul had fallen in January 1951. Martin sent this letter to the General regarding his, and President Truman's views on the spread of Communism - fearing that if Korea was lost it would eventually lead to the spread of communism in Europe. Congressman Martin read this letter and MacArthur's response on 5 April leading to Truman relieving the General of command for perceived insubordination. The decision was hugely unpopular and led to wide public controversy. This copy was possibly produced for circulation to Congress during Martin's April 5th address.
This lot is located in Cincinnati.
Property of a Midwest Collector
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