The Truman Doctrine
Lessons for the American Family
President Harry S. Truman, Photo WhiteHouseHistory.org.
On March 12, 1947, President Truman introduced the Truman Doctrine. This policy was a commitment to stopping the spread of communism by supporting free nations threatened by authoritarian regimes.
Studying the Truman Doctrine can help families today understand the significance of freedom, responsibility, and resisting oppressive ideologies.
What was the Truman Doctrine?
The Truman Doctrine was a speech delivered by President Truman to Congress, emphasizing America’s duty to assist nations resisting communism, particularly Greece and Turkey at the time. Truman argued that the United States must support free people in their struggles against authoritarian forces that sought to eliminate their liberties.
This policy set the foundation for America’s Cold War strategy and its opposition to communism worldwide.
It became important for Americans during the Cold War as the Truman Doctrine marked the beginning of America’s active role in containing communism. It reinforced the importance of worldwide democratic values and free enterprise, and demonstrated the need for moral courage.
The Official Transcript of the Truman Doctrine read in Congress on March 12, 1947. Photo: The National Archives.
Timeless Principles to Teach Your Kids
The principles behind the Truman Doctrine remain relevant today.
Here are key lessons that parents can teach their children:
1. The Value of Freedom
Have open conversations with your children about why communism suppresses individual rights and personal freedoms, while democracy, and representative government, allows people to make their own choices and voice their own opinions.
Let your children think of ways your family life might be different if the government controlled your everyday life and imposed restrictions on your family.
2. Standing Up Against Oppression
Explain why and how the United States chose to stand against an ideology that sought to control people’s lives and became an international beacon of hope for those suffering under communism. Instill the value that we, as Americans, should stand up for what is right, even when it’s difficult.
If you feel your child is ready, join them in watching one of our interviews with a survivor of communism, and lead age-appropriate questions and discuss their bravery.
3. The Responsibility to Help Others
The Truman Doctrine teaches that freedom isn’t just about self-interest, it’s about helping others stay free. We are blessed to be Americans, and should be proud of it. Discuss with your children how they can spread the message of freedom in their schools and community.
Encourage kids to apply this principle by helping a friend in need or standing up for someone who’s being treated unfairly.
4. The Dangers of Government Overreach
In communist systems, governments control every aspect of life including jobs and the economy, property, speech, and even thoughts. Teaching children the importance of limited government ensures they value personal responsibility and independence.
Discuss with your children the differences between a government that protects freedom versus one that controls people.
5. Patriotism and the American Way of Life
America has historically been a defender of freedom against oppressive ideologies. Understanding history helps children appreciate their country and its values. Use our guides and curriculum to continue this conversation as supplemental educational resources, or share with your homeschool community!
Visit a historical site, watch a documentary or one of our interviews, and read books about American history and national figures, and discuss why America’s role in the world matters.
The Truman Doctrine was more than just a policy. It was a declaration of America’s commitment to freedom. By teaching our children these lessons, we help them understand why defending liberty and resisting oppressive ideologies is essential. As families, we can instill in our kids a sense of patriotism, moral courage, and responsibility to stand for truth and justice in their own lives.
“The seeds of totalitarian regimes are nurtured by misery and want.”
Let’s raise our children to know the value of freedom and standing against forces that seek to take it away.
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