National Affairs: The Speech

Harry Truman had just finished speaking when Adlai Stevenson walked down the steps on to the rostrum. Truman led him forward. It was the first glimpse most of the delegates—and most of the U.S.—had of the man who, Democratic orators told them fervently, would be the next President of the United States. While Truman introduced him, Stevenson stood ramrod stiff behind the President, occasionally rising on tiptoe. Then he began reading his speech. After a week of turgid oratory, Truman's included, Stevenson's words struck an entirely new, deeply appealing note. Most delegates had never heard anything like it.

Excerpts:

"None of you ....

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!