Meaning: The quote "Almost everything Truman did in foreign affairs I approve of" by historian Stephen Ambrose reflects a positive assessment of former US President Harry S. Truman's approach to foreign policy. In order to understand the significance of this statement, it is essential to delve into the context of Truman's presidency and his foreign policy decisions.

Harry S. Truman served as the 33rd President of the United States from 1945 to 1953, a period marked by significant global upheaval and challenges. Truman assumed the presidency in the midst of World War II, and he faced the formidable task of navigating the post-war landscape and shaping America's role in the emerging Cold War era.

One of Truman's most notable foreign policy achievements was the implementation of the Truman Doctrine in 1947. This doctrine aimed to contain the spread of communism and provide support to countries threatened by communist expansion. It represented a pivotal shift in US foreign policy, signaling a commitment to actively opposing the spread of Soviet influence. The Truman Doctrine set the stage for the subsequent policy of containment, which became a cornerstone of US foreign policy throughout the Cold War.

Truman's decisive action in the Korean War further exemplified his commitment to containing the spread of communism. When North Korean forces invaded South Korea in 1950, Truman swiftly mobilized international support and committed US military forces to repel the aggression. His leadership in the Korean War demonstrated a willingness to confront communist aggression and defend the principles of democracy and freedom.

In addition to his confrontational stance towards communism, Truman also played a key role in the establishment of international institutions aimed at promoting peace and cooperation. The Marshall Plan, proposed by Secretary of State George Marshall and implemented under Truman's leadership, provided economic assistance to help rebuild war-torn Western Europe. This initiative not only facilitated the region's recovery but also served as a bulwark against the spread of communism by strengthening Western European economies and fostering stability.

Truman's administration was also instrumental in the formation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 1949. This military alliance, comprising the United States, Canada, and several European countries, was designed to counter the threat of Soviet expansion in Europe. Truman's support for NATO underscored his commitment to collective security and solidarity among democratic nations in the face of external threats.

Furthermore, Truman's decision to authorize the use of atomic bombs against Japan during World War II, while controversial and subject to ongoing debate, reflected his unwavering determination to bring about a swift end to the conflict and prevent further loss of life. This pivotal decision, taken shortly after he assumed the presidency following the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, has been a focal point of historical analysis and moral scrutiny.

Stephen Ambrose, a prominent historian known for his extensive work on US history and military affairs, expressed his approval of Truman's foreign policy in the quote. Ambrose's assessment likely stems from his recognition of Truman's resolute leadership during a critical period in global history. Truman's actions, as viewed through the lens of history, reflect a mix of assertive diplomacy, strategic alliances, and a firm stance against the spread of communism.

In conclusion, Stephen Ambrose's affirmation of Truman's foreign policy underscores the significance of Truman's presidency in shaping America's role in the post-World War II world. Truman's approach to foreign affairs, characterized by initiatives such as the Truman Doctrine, the Marshall Plan, and the formation of NATO, reflects a commitment to promoting democracy, containing communism, and fostering international cooperation. Ambrose's approval of Truman's foreign policy aligns with the positive appraisal of Truman's presidency as a pivotal era in US foreign relations.