THE WIT & WISDOM OF HARRY TRUMAN captures the warmth, straightforwardness and charm of a dedicated public man. One of Truman’s early diaries entries states: "Another hectic day in the executive office. Saw a lot of customers. Hope they all left happy."

In an era of spin doctors, media consultants, and dysfunctional government, it is refreshing to read the words of a politician who knew his own mind and wasn’t afraid to speak it. Harry Truman’s pithy, forthright comments have survived the test of time. "Being a president is like riding a tiger," Truman observed. "A man has to keep riding or be swallowed." The plainspoken man from Missouri stands in stark contrast to modern politicians who don’t seem sure of who they are and what they stand for.

THE WIT & WISDOM OF HARRY TRUMAN captures the warmth, straightforwardness and charm of a dedicated public man. One of Truman’s early diaries entries states: "Another hectic day in the executive office. Saw a lot of customers. Hope they all left happy."

Ralph Keyes has collected quotes, anecdotes and excerpts from Truman’s diaries, letters,speeches, and press conferences that illustrate his ability to be both outspoken and optimistic about post-war America.

Acknowledgments

Author’s Note

Wilder Than Ever About Harry

Truman on People 

Truman on Issues

Harry Truman’s Life Stories

Love, Harry

Dear Diary 

Press Relations 

My Fellow Americans

Bibliography

Notes

Index