Word: byrneses
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Dates: during 1940-1949
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As long as its leaders could not make up their minds, the nation blundered down a dark road. Last week the blunderer made a sudden turn. Secretary of State James F. Byrnes, a man of many turnings, rose and spoke words which heartened the world.
The Firm Shove. As a declaration of policy, Jimmy Byrnes's pronouncement belonged in diplomatic history. This week, around the world, foreign offices studied it. Critics also studied it, knowing that it had to be read in the light of its circumstances.
Byrnes had been forced into taking his position. The day before he spoke, Republican Senator Arthur Vandenberg had also made a speech calling for a more dynamic foreign policy (see below). Vandenberg's plea, applauded by the nation, was a clear challenge. Byrnes's fellow delegate to the...
The Firm Line. Jimmy Byrnes himself also had to be considered. The onetime court reporter and shorthand expert, onetime Representative, onetime Senator, onetime Supreme Court Justice, onetime "Assistant President," full-time compromiser, had made eloquent and forceful speeches before. Critics wondered whether Jimmy Byrnes was as big as his words...
Nevertheless, as Secretary of State he had laid down a line. Foreign offices applauded. U.S. citizens felt the national dignity and self-respect somewhat restored. Jimmy Byrnes had laid down principles from which deviation now would be painfully apparent.