An Eternal New Deal: A 1948 Election TL

[King_Arthur]

Chapter One - First in the Nation (August 1948 - January 1949)​

Dewey Defeats Truman
‘Governor Thomas E. Dewey of New York (a Republican) has defeated President Harry S. Truman from Missouri (a Democrat) in an Electoral College landslide of 336 votes to 133, with States Rights Party candidate Governor Strom Thurmond of South Carolina winning 62 votes. Truman’s loss, after 16 years of Democratic dominance, will come as no surprise to most. Dewey had been ahead in the polls by over five points since California Governor Earl Warren was selected as his running mate in July. President Truman struggled to fend off repeated attacks about the chaotic situation in China with General MacArthur, who is an opponent to Truman, .claiming “a vote for Harry Truman is a vote for Mao Zedong” in October, referring to the leader of the Chinese Communist Party.’
The Chicago Daily Tribune, November 1948

‘I remember the 1948 Election like it was yesterday. We were so certain of a Dewey victory that we printed his victory on the front page the day before the election. Our gamble did pay off, and I’m sure the photo of Governor Dewey with the staff is still in the Tribunals newsroom today’
Alan Kurtz: A Life in Print (1987)

‘The 1948 Election was not as close as you may believe. Due to the extreme unpopularity of the Republican controlled Congress, Dewey controversially said that the 80th Congress has “done an awful job for America”. This brought stiff rebuke from key figures such as Senator Robert A. Taft and former President Herbert Hoover. It also resulted in a Democratic Majority controlled congress, with the House being split 251-184, and the Senate being split 55-41, with the Democrats surprisingly picking up a seat in New Jersey. The closest election was that of CA-12, where the congressman was elected by just 847 votes after a recount. He was known to be a very effective campaigner; his name was Richard Milhous Nixon, and America had not heard the last of him.’
The Sixth Party System: American Politics from 1932 to 1956

Dewey calls for more Republican Congressmen
‘President-elect Dewey has recanted his previous call for the defeat of the Republican-controlled congress. Senator Taft of Ohio, an opponent of the former Governor of New York in the Republican primaries, was fiercely critical of this move claiming “Governor Dewey has condemned this Congress so fiercely that he hardly deserves to be called Republican”. Mr Dewey said “I understand that was the wrong call to make and I hope to work with Senator Taft and others to reclaim Congress for the Republican Party in 1950.” Another critic of Dewey, Herbert Hoover (President 1929-1933) has declined to comment.’
The Washington Post, December 1948

Thurmond booted by the Democrats
‘Governor Strom Thurmond of South Carolina, has been expelled from the Democratic Party. It was announced yesterday by party bosses, citing Governor Thurmond’s performance in November’s election as costing President Truman victory. He has announced that he will remain as Governor of South Carolina as a member of the State’s Rights Party. Two fellow Southern Democratic Governors, Fielding Wright of Mississippi and Benjamin Laney of Arkansas have resigned as members of the Democratic Party, and are now Governing as ‘Dixiecrats’ as the SRP is commonly known as.’
The Chicago Daily Tribune, January 1949

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Two - Red Flag Rising (January 1949 - July 1949)​

McCarthy speaks out against Communism
‘Senator Joseph McCarthy (R-Wisconsin) has spoken to the Post about his fervent opposition to communism. He told us “The Communist Party is the source of most evil in America. I ask why the government of the United States permitted an organisation of traitors to run amok in our beautiful country. Quite frankly, John, it is traitorous behaviour.” The Senator defeated Robert M. LaFollette Jr in 1946 and does not have any significant accomplishments as of yet. He also told us – “I am looking in to communist sympathisers in our government and I promise I will get back to you very soon.”
The Washington Post, February 1949


Senator Joe McCarthy

NATO Signed in Washington
‘The North Atlantic Treaty is expected to be signed today in Washington, DC. The treaty creates a formal defensive alliance between the US, Canada and several Anti-Communist countries in Europe. The reception in Washington has been mixed, with Senator Taft, the leader of the isolationist faction in Congress, declaring “This is the end of an independent United States Armed Forces.”
The Washington Post, April 1949

Chinese Communists take Nanjing
‘Yesterday (April 23) communist troops took Nanjing. The city, formerly capital of China, was yet another victory as the Nationalists under Chiang Kai-Shek appear to be in an increasingly dire situation. Vice President MacArthur said “President Truman signed the death warrant for a free and democratic China, which can now be safely called a lost cause. President Dewey and I are working closely with Secretaries Dulles and Marshall, as well as General Eisenhower to ensure that the same fate does not ensue in Korea, Vietnam and Greece.’
The Washington Post, April 1949

Soviets lift Berlin Blockade
‘Yesterday, a spokesperson for the Soviet Union announced that the Blockade around Berlin would be lifted effective today. Last year, President Truman administration began the so called ‘Berlin Airlift’, in collaboration with the RAF and other allied air forces. It disrupted the Soviets despicable and inhumane attempt. The Soviet ambassador to the United States has refused to comment.
The Washington Post, May 1949

‘In June 1949 the FBI named several famous celebrities in a report about the communist threat in America. The ‘2nd Red Scare’ was just heating up as it seemed, with HUAC to begin serious investigations soon after. This of cause came after the Hollywood Ten incident in 1947 when Dalton Trumbo and several other Hollywood characters were blacklisted for being part of the Communist Party.’
HUAC: A History (2009)

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Three - European Sunset (August 1949 – December 1949)​

War in Greece over
‘George C Marshall, former General and current Secretary of Defence, announced victory against the Communist rebels in Greece with the Greek ambassador today. The Greek Civil War has been ongoing since 1946, with the Greek government being supported by the US and UK. The Communist were supported by Bulgaria and Yugoslavia, and the remnants of their army has retreated to Communist Albania.’
The Chicago Daily Tribune, August 1949

‘The pro-Western Federal Republic of Germany, made up of the British, American and French sectors of Germany and of Berlin was founded on September 7 1949. It was the first entity mildly resembling a sovereign state in Germany since 1945. Konrad Adenauer was the First Chancellor.’
The Cold War 1945-1957 (1990)

Konrad Adenauer, the First Chancellor of West Germany

Dewey’s approval ratings have dropped due to Russian A-Bomb says Gallup
‘Last week, on September 23, President Dewey said that “I have ever been notified by General Eisenhower, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, that the Soviets gained Atomic Weapons last month”. This has led to calls by many Congressmen to find the spies who gave the Soviet Union (possessors of vastly inferior technology to the US) our nuclear secrets. A poll released by Gallop show that 52% of Americans approve of the job President Dewey was doing, as opposed to the 63% at the beginning of the month.’
The Washington Post, September 1949

‘Another key country founded in 1949 was the People’s Republic of China, which was proclaimed on October 1. The first country to recognise it was the Soviet Union. When asked whether the US would do the same by Washington Post reporters, Secretary of State John Foster Dulles replied “The United States of America will never bow to the Communist tyranny, and will continue to recognise the Nationalists government being established in Taiwan as the true government of China”.’
The Cold War 1945-1957 (1990)

German Democratic Republic established
‘The Soviet Union announced that their sector of Germany and Berlin will now be a sovereign state called the German Democratic Republic, with a Communist government. Chancellor Adenauer of the FRG (also called West Germany) has not commented.’
The Chicago Daily Tribune, October 1949

Communists advance towards Taiwan halted
‘The advance of the Chinese Communists towards Taiwan has been halted at the Battle of Kuningto. This has provided hope that a great many of Chiang Kai-Shek’s nationalist soldiers could escape to Taiwan’
The Washington Post, October 1949

Chiang establishes government on Taiwan
‘The Republic of China has finished it’s evacuation to Taiwan in the face of its imminent defeat in the Chinese Civil War. Leading figure Chiang Kai-Shek has said the measure is temporary and they hope to soon reclaim China. Taipei has been named temporary capital.’
The Chicago Daily Tribune, December 1949

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Four – Gathering Storm (January – May 1950)​

McCarthy accuses 205 State Department officials of being Communists
‘Senator McCarthy, who has been making a name for himself as a prominent Anti-Communist claimed the State Department is resident to 205 Communists on a speech to the Republican Women’s Club in Wheeling, West Virginia last night. He elaborated that the FBI was investigating many cases of communism, and told the attendees to stay vigilant against the “most evil and sinister of ideologies”. Secretary of State John Foster Dulles denied the allegations and said “Senator McCarthy should focus on being loyal to his country and such outlandish claims as this do not help fight Communism”.’
The Washington Post, February 1950

‘The February 1950 riots in Paris were the beginning of the end of the Fourth French Republic. The Communist ideology already had significant support among the working classes in Northeast France. I knew then it was only a matter of time until the government collapsed".'
De Gaulle: A Life (1967)

‘On March 1st Chiang resumed government functions in Taipei. This symbolised China as yet another country divided between Communism and Capitalism. It would also bring about a great many crises in the year ahead.’
Defining Years: 1950 (1994)

Belgians vote in favour of Monarchy
'Yesterday, Belgium voted to keep the Monarchy by 58% to 42%. The current King, Leopold III, has been in exile since the Nazis invaded Belgium in 1940. There have been calls by prominent Belgian politicians that the King should step down in favour of his son, Baudouin.'
The Washington Post, March 1950

Badouin to be named King of the Belgians
'King Leopold III of Belgium has announced that he is ready to step down in favour of his son, Baudouin. A spokesman for the King told the Post that "The King believes it is the right time to step down. Last month the Belgian people made clear that they favour the monarchy, but King Leopold thinks that the Belgian people deserve a fresh start. he hopes Baudouin is named King of the Belgians with haste".'
The Washington Post, April 1950

Baudouin, future King of the Belgians

Dulles admits there are Communist traitors in the State Department
'After previously demanding comments by Senator Joseph McCarthy that there were communist infiltrators in the State Department, Secretary Dulles has admitted the Senator was right. He said in a speech yesterday "It has recently come to my attention that there are infilitrators in my department, many of whom are Communists". A Gallup poll showed that 72% of Americans had a favourable opinion of McCarthy, compared to 22% having a favourable opinion of Dulles, and Representative Henry Jackson ( D WA-2) even called for his resignation.'
The Washington Post, May 1950

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Five - Korean Summer (June-July 1950) ​

North Korea invades South Korea
'Last night soldiers from the North Korean People's Army crossed the 38th Parallel (the border between North and South Korea) into South Korea. North Korea, abbreviated as the DPRK, is a communist country based in the half of the Korean peninsula liberated from Japan by the Soviet Union in 1945. The recently formed People's Republic of China (PRC) also backs North Korea, and their leader Kim-Il Sung.'

The Washington Post, June 1950



America at War with North Korea
'Yesterday President Dewey uttered the following words on national television. "Korea has committed an act of war against the peaceful nation of South Korea. As the President of the United States, I believe that it is our duty, given by God, to ensure peace and justice on the world. Earlier today, an emergency session of Congress was held, and it voted in favour of a declaration of war against North Korea". Others were not in favour of such a move. Senator Taft of Ohio, a noted isolationist and critic of the President told the Post yesterday "It is not our God given duty to seek war and get tangled up in such petty conflicts, it is, however, our God given duty to rise above such small internal issues".'

The Washington Post, June 1950



Seoul captured by the North Koreans
'It has been confirmed by Secretary Marshall that North Korean troops have captured Seoul, former capital of Korea and current, or at least until today, capital of South Korea. No further information is currently available.'

The Washington Post, June 1950



'I was sitting at my desk in the Pentagon, listening to ABC on the radio when the call from Dewey came through. He said "Ike, you all but won us the War in Europe 5 years ago, can you help us win another?

Then I said "Mr President, you've not just said what I think you've just said have you?

He replied "Look, Dwight it was either you or MacArthur and I can't stand him, well no one can. How about this, we'll give you a promotion to Pershing's rank and after you’ve served your country one last time, you can retire." I thought about this offer for a moment, then I accepted. I was going to have one last hurrah in Korea, then back to Gettysburg with Mamie for me.'

A Soldier Man (1965)

General of the Armies Dwight D. Eisenhower

'In the summer of 1950 I was a Major and had been assigned to Japan to work under General MacArthur. When the news came through that not only Eisenhower had been appointed to lead the military expedition in Korea, but that he had been promoted by Dewey to General of the Armies, a Six Star rank, MacArthur was seething with rage. He yelled at me "Major! You are getting on that Goddamn phone and you are calling Dewey, Bradley and Marshall. You're gonna tell them they will recall Eisenhower and replace him with me. Do you understand!"

I was so scared by the General's outburst I could only meekly say "Yes, Sir."

Carolinian General (1989)

General of the Army Douglas MacArthur

MacArthur appointed Co-Leader of the Korean Taskforce
'President Dewey and General Omar Bradley, recently appointed Chairman of the General Staff, announced that General Douglas MacArthur will be appointed Co-Leader (with General Eisenhower) of the Korean Taskforce. General Bradley told us that "General MacArthur has done extremely commendable service in the Philippines and in Japan. He has made a request to join the Korean Taskforce, so the President, Secretary Marshall and I granted it".'

The Washington Post, July 1950



'They put MacArthur and Field Marshall Harding, leader of the British and Imperial forces, in charge at Taejong. They lost the city to the North Koreans, but Harding managed to set up a perimeter around Pusan. They called it the Pusan Perimeter and it seemed like our position would hold for now. Meanwhile, I was preparing for a major counterattack being planned for August or September.'

A Soldier Man (1965)

​

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Six: Stoking the Fire (August-October 1950)


​

Ike lands at Inchon
‘General of the Armies Dwight D Eisenhower has landed, with US, British and other allied forces, at Inchon. The city is close to Seoul, capital of South Korea until its capture by the DPRK in June. It is believed that Seoul is indeed the target of this military expedition. General of the Army Douglas MacArthur and Field Marshal John Harding of Britain are still surrounded in the city of Pusan according to reports.

The Washington Post, September 1950


‘MacArthur was not Mr Happy after our success in Inchon. In the telephone call I made all he said was “So you live to fight another day Eisenhower” before putting the phone down. Secretly I think that he wanted me to fail so he could break out of Pusan and claim all the glory for him. Shortly after, we captured Seoul, throwing the North Koreans into chaos allowing MacArthur and Harding to break out. It wasn’t long after that we crossed the 38th parallel and into North Korea.’

A Soldier Man (1964)


Tibet invaded by the PRC
‘The communist People’s Republic of China has annexed the Himalayan nation of Tibet. The PRC was proclaimed by the Chinese Communist Party’s leader Mao Zedong last year after his victory in the 22 year long Chinese Civil War. The PRC has heralded their military action at the Battle of Chamdo a ‘peaceful liberation of the Proletariat from the Tibetan Bourgeois.’

The Chicago Daily Tribune, October 1950

200,000 Chinese troops cross the Yalu River
'Yesterday, General Bradley announced that spy planes had spotted approximately 200,000 Chinese troops crossing the Yalu River, the border between North Korea and the PRC. China and North Korea are both Communist countries and are believed to be allied. It is unknown as of yet how this will affect the war.

The Washington Post, October 1950

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Seven: New Deal Coalition on Trial (August-December 1950)​

Dulles: Usage of Nuclear Weapons aren’t ruled out in Korea
‘Secretary of State John Dulles has announced in a speech outside the White House that the US Government will not rule out anything in orer to bring peace to Korea. When asked whether this includes Nuclear Weapons by Chicago Daily Tribune reporter Alan Kurtz, he repeated the previous statement.’

The Washington Post, August 1950


Ronald Reagan says ‘The Usage of Nuclear Weaponry should never be considered’
Actor Ronald Reagan (39) has said in a radio interview that “Secretary Dulles should not have said that. I have been against Nuclear Weaponry since August 9 1945 and I believe the usage of Nuclear Weaponry should never be considered. I voted for President Roosevelt all 4 times, but when President Truman used those bombs in Japan he lost my vote, but I still believe in the core values of the Democratic Party and I still consider myself to be a Democrat.

The Washington Post, August 1950


‘After that interview it seemed like every reporter and photographer in the whole of California came to my house. They camped there day and night and just wouldn’t budge. Then Senator McCarthy was going on endless rants about my patriotism and it was all too much to bear. I called a press conference and when asked about the Senator, I replied “Perhaps the good Senator should refrain from questioning my patriotism while he is advocating locking up fellow Americans with no reason whatsoever. This violates the constitution, so maybe his patriotism should be questioned!” There was a very good reception, and I had drunk a bit too much the night before, so I said “One more thing. I announce my candidacy for the Democratic Party in the California Gubernatorial election.’

An American Life (1990)


‘Despite the Korean War going well, the Dewey administration had had to neglect domestic policy to get to that point. They lost big in the House, losing 32 seats, with the SRP gaining 5 seats (2 in South Carolina, 1 each in Alabama, Mississippi and Arkansas). In the Senate they lost 3 seats, but Richard Nixon managed to win in California for them. Meanwhile in South Carolina, Governor Thurmond managed to win a Senate seat for the SRP. The Gubernatorial elections were uneventful, bar one. In California Ronald Reagan managed to gain the Democratic nomination and promoted a fiscally conservative, socially liberal platform against the current Governor and former Lieutenant-Governor of popular Governor and current Vice-President Earl Warren, Goodwin Knight. The race was extremely close and the counting went on long into the night, but at 7am EST, Ronald Reagan was announced to have won by 49.8% to 49.1%.

The Sixth Party System: US Politics 1932 to 1956

​

Ronald Reagan later in life

 

[King_Arthur]

The 82nd Congress
​

The House of Representatives

Democrats: 278

Republicans: 152

States’ Rights: 5

Speaker of the House: Sam Rayburn (D TX-4)


The Senate

Democrats: 56

Republicans: 39

States’ Rights: 1

President Pro Tempore: Kenneth McKellar (D-TN)

President of the Senate: Earl Warren (R-CA)


Main Governors

California: Ronald Reagan (D) 1951-

New York: Joe R. Hanley (R) 1948-

Illinois: Adlai Stevenson II (D) 1949-

Texas: Allan Shivers (D) 1949-

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Eight: Fifty Shades of Red (January-July 1951)​

Seoul recaptured by the Communists

‘Two days ago, General Eisenhower and the United Nation forces in Korea had a nasty New Year’s surprise when Seoul was recaptured by the Chinese and North Koreans in what is being called the Third Battle of Seoul. It is presently unclear how much of a setback to the allied forces in Korea this is.’

The Chicago Daily Tribune, January 1951


22nd Amendment fails ratification

‘The 22nd Amendment has failed ratification. The proposed amendment, which limited Presidents to two terms each, has failed to reach the required number of states needed for ratification. it was passed by the Republican controlled 79th Congress in 1947, but since then it has been vehemently opposed by the Democratic party, who made it a campaign issue n November's Midterm elections. Many states in the South refused to ratify it, with notable southern democrats such as Senator Estes Kefauver of Tennessee opposing it. recently elected California Governor Reagan, who has been making waves in state politics, also opposed it. Massachusetts, Georgia, Texas, Tennessee and Alabama all refused to ratify the amendment, states with powerful Democratic parties. Governor Reagan rescinded California's ratification from 4 years ago, meaning the amendment has been smothered at birth.'

The Washington Post, February 1951

UN forces recapture Seoul
'Forces under the command of Lieutenant-General Matthew Ridgway have liberated Seoul in the Fourth of a series of battles fought over the city. North Korean and Chinese forces are retreating and UN forces are getting closer to the 38th Parallel. General Bradley has commended Ridgway, calling him "a valiant and capable commander, whom the United States Army is lucky to have".'

The Washington Post, March 1951

'One of my first jobs in '51 was to report the Rosenberg trial. Julius and Ethel Rosenberg were on trial for giving Atomic secrets to the Soviet Union. The charge was Conspiracy to commit Espionage, and the couple were found guilty and sentenced to death. many reporters believed that this sentence was too harsh and the publicity of the trial as well as the Cold War hysteria going on at the time, most likely swayed the Judge's opinion. One good thing about the trial was that public opinion began to turn against the myths propagated by Senator McCarthy as well as J. Edgar Hoover and his goons.
Alan Kurtz: A Life in Print (1987)

'Using Nuclear Weapons are the only way' - MacArthur
'General of the Army Douglas MacArthur has told reporters in the South Korean city of Busan that "the only way to win in Korea is to bomb the hell out of the North Koreans and the Chinese. And when I say 'bombs' I don't mean the tin cans that Germany were lobbing at England back in 1940, I mean Nuclear Bombs". To date he has been censured by Generals Bradley and Eisenhower, Secretary of Defence George Marshall, President Dewey and Vice President Warren, as well as 9 Senator and 23 Representatives. However other figures such as Senator Thurmond and Secretary Dulles have praised the General, with Dulles calling the comments "A comment that champions democracy, from the Champion of Democracy". There have also been calls for the General to be relieved of his duties.
The Washington Post, June 1951

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Nine – Push to Pyongyang (August-December 1951
​

France has new Prime Minister ​

'The domestic situation in France has rapidly been deteriorating the past year. Violent turmoil has erupted in the North African colony of Algeria and a succession of weak governments since the institution of the 4th French Republic after liberation in 1945 have threatened the security of France. Communist activists have protested in Paris, Lille and Marseille, with the Communist Party winning 167 seats in June's legislative election. There have also been rumblings of a Military Coup, which has failed to materialise so far, with World War 2 hero Charles de Gaulle disavowing such rumours. Guy Mollet has been appointed Prime Minister by the ruling Socialist-Communist coalition.'

The Washington Post, August 1951



Peace Treaty signed with Japan
'48 nations have signed a Treaty in San Francisco ended the state of war between their countries and the Empire of Japan. The USA is also one of those 48 signatories. Secretary Dulles has stated that he hopes America will end its occupation of Japan at some point next year.'

The Washington Post, September 1951


'On October 2 1951 troops under the command of General Dwight Eisenhower marched into Pyongyang. This was the culmination of the much-storied offensive known as the Push to Pyongyang. No less than 6 movies bearing that name have been filmed (1959, 1967, 1976, 1988, 2004 and 2017) and it is one of the best-known battles in American history. This gave President Dewey, who was seeking re-election, a boost in the polls, improving his approval rating from 42% to 50%.

War in American Popular Culture (2018)



Atlee re-elected with increased majority
'Labour Party leader and incumbent Prime Minister, Clement Atlee has been re-elected against wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill, leader of the Conservative Party. Labour won 14 seats, bringing their total to 329, the Conservatives won 284 seats, while the Liberal Party held onto their 9 seats. 313 seats are needed for a majority. Mr Churchill has declared his intention to resign as leader of the Conservative Party.'

The Daily Telegraph, October 1951



Thousands of troops transferred from Japan to Korea
'General Omar Bradley has announced a significant transfer of troops from Japan to Korea. An estimated 57% of soldiers have been moved to support General Eisenhower's main offensive. Power will be transferred from America to Japan in April next year.'

The Chicago Daily Tribune, December 1951

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Ten – The Eye of the Storm (January– July 1952)​

Emperor Hirohito of Japan killed in failed coup
'Hirohito, the Japanese Emperor, has been shot dead in an attempted military coup. The coup was believed to have been carried out by a minority of Nationalist Hardliners in the Japanese military. The perpetrators committed suicide after the coup failed. Hirohito's son, Akihito (18) was the heir apparent and is most likely to become the next Emperor of Japan. American military forces have re-established control, with the handover of power still to happen on schedule in April. Some believe this coup was made possible by the transfer of over half of the American troops to Korea, which happened last month.'

The Washington Post, January 1952



King George VI dies of Lung Cancer
'Last night, King George died aged 56 after a long illness. It was announced by a spokesman for Buckingham Palace this morning and messages of condolences have come from Prime Minister Atlee, ex-Prime Minister Winston Churchill and Leader of the Conservative Party Anthony Eden, as well as President Dewey of America and Prime Minister Mollet of France. Princess Elizabeth, currently on a trip to Kenya, is expected to become Queen.

The Daily Telegraph, February 1952



'On February 26 1952, the United Kingdom became the third country to possess Nuclear Bombs. It was hardly a surprise, as Britain had conducted much research on the matter, research shared with the USA. The announcement by Prime Minister Atlee was met with congratulations from Dewey, and condemnation from Stalin.'

The Cold War 1945-1957 (1990)



European Coal and Steel Community officially formed
'West Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourg, Belgium and the Netherlands have officially formed the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC). First proposed by French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman in 1950, the founding treaty was signed last year and will come into effect today. It creates a Common Market for Coal and Steel among those six countries and it is hoped the Common Market will prevent competition over the industrial regions of the Ruhr and Saar. Minister Schuman says that its aim is "to make further war between France and Germany both strategically and materially impossible". However, with the crumbling French government, it is unknown whether this will work.'

The Washington Post, July 1952



'In the lead up to the 1952 RNC, DNC and SRPNC, it was very unclear who the President would be on January 20 1953. The expected challenge by conservative Senator Robert A. Taft of Ohio, son of former President and Chief Justice of the Supreme Court William Howard Taft, did very well against incumbent President Dewey, with several favourite sons winning their home states. It was still uncertain who the eventual nominee wold be, but many expected Dewey would win at the convention. The main Democratic candidates were Senator and 1948 Vice-Presidential Candidate Alben W. Barkley of Kentucky and Governor Adlai Stevenson II of Illinois. Barkley and Stevenson were neck and neck, with Tennessee Senator Estes Kefauver in 3rd Place. Governor Benjamin Laney of Arkansas was the presumptive nominee for the States' Rights Party, with primary rival and 1948 Vice-Presidential Candidate Governor Fielding Wright of Mississippi expected to be the Vice-Presidential nominee.'

The Sixth Party System: US Politics from 1932 to 1956

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Eleven – Race to the White House (August - December 1952) ​

'Once again, the GOP Convention in Sacramento was contested. President Dewey had slightly more delegates than Senator Taft, with several favourite sons also holding delegates. After the 1st Round of voting produced no results, Dewey, according to reports, was in a state of panic. Barely minutes before the 2nd Round was due to begin, the President visited former Governor Stassen of Minnesota. The Governor withdrew, and handed his delegates over to Dewey, in exchange for being nominated as running mate. This allowed Dewey to win the vote, and Stassen handily won the Vice-Presidential nomination vote against incumbent Earl Warren. Warren was furious with Dewey and threatened to jump ship to the Democrats and win them a senate seat in his native California. In the end, he was calmed down with the promise of the next Supreme Court seat to become vacant.'

The Republican Party (2009)



'The Democratic convention was similar to the Republican version. In New York City, Senator Barkley and Governor Stevenson were neck and neck, with Stevenson ahead by 7 delegates. The numerous favourite sons did not have another delegate, bar one. Senator Estes Kefauver of Tennessee was in 3rd place and could put either candidate over the top. Party bosses tried to make him choose Stevenson, an Illinoisan, as Barkley was from Kentucky, another solid Democratic state in the south. Defying their wishes, the Senator endorsed Barkley and promptly withdrew, even refusing a Vice-Presidential nomination. Instead Barkley agreed to endorse him if he ran in 1956 or 1960 depending on the election result. This put the senator over the top. Senator Hubert H Humphrey of Minnesota was chosen as Vice-Presidential nominee in an uneventful vote.

As expected, he States' Rights Party chose Governor Laney of Arkansas, and Governor Wright of Mississippi as their candidates in Athens, Georgia.'

The Sixth Party System: US Politics 1932 to 1956



'Senator Barkley and President Dewey were neck and neck in every poll conducted by Gallup and The Pew Research Center. The main Toss-up states were California, Nevada, Washington, the entire Great Lakes region except Indiana, Pennsylvania and New York, as well as Florida. Laney was predicted to win all of the Deep South, as well as Arkansas. The economy, which had previously been struggling, roared back into life in the Summer, which boosted Dewey's campaign. His campaign promise to end the Korean War, while America were winning, and to clamp down on Communism won him much support. On Election Day, he won in an unexpected landslide, winning by 371-103-57. He won all of the swing states except for Minnesota. In the House, the Republicans gained 35 seats from the Democrats, with the SRP winning 11 seats, putting the total at 232-187-16. In the Senate, the Republicans won a seat in Rhode Island, while Democratic Senator John Stennis of Mississippi defected to the SRP, putting the total at 54-40-2.'

The Sixth Party System: US Politics 1932 to 1956

 

[King_Arthur]

The 83rd Congress​

The House of Representatives

Democrats: 232

Republicans: 187

States' Rights: 16

Speaker of the House: Sam Rayburn (D TX-4)


The Senate

Democrats: 54

Republicans: 40

States' Rights: 2

President of the Senate: Earl Warren (R-CA) Jan 3 - Jan 20 1953
Harold Stassen (R-MN) Jan 20 1953 - Jan 3 1955

President Pro Tempore: Walter George (D-GA)


Main Governors

California: Ronald Reagan (D) 1951-

New York: Joe R. Hanley (R) 1948-

Illinois: Adlai Stevenson (D) 1949-

Texas: Allan Shivers (D) 1949-

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Twelve – The Slipping Grasp (January-July 1953) ​

US has a 'Hydrogen Bomb'

'President Dewey has announced today that the USA has a 'Hydrogen Bomb'. He elaborated on what a Hydrogen Bomb is, saying "A Thermonuclear weapon, also known as a Hydrogen Bomb, is currently the most powerful weapon known to man and the US is the sole possessor of it'

The Washington Post, January 1953



Dewey finally confirms no clemency to be granted to the Rosenbergs

'President Thomas E Dewey, recently sworn in for his second term, has announced that no clemency will be granted to Julius and Ethel Rosenberg. They were sentenced to death in the April of 1951 for Espionage, but mass outrage and pleas for mercy by figures as diverse as Albert Einstein, Pablo Picasso and Pope Pius XII. The President has just confirmed that clemency will not be granted to the couple.'

The Washington Post, February 1953



'March 1st 1953 was a very important date for the Cold War and the World. Josef Stalin, the First Secretary of the Soviet Union died in his sleep. For a few days the Kremlin was in complete and utter chaos, as many different factions engaged in a power struggle, but eventually a compromise was struck with Vyacheslav Molotov named First Secretary and Lavrentiy Beria made Premier. However, this ill-thought out deal would soon be revealed as temporary.'

The Cold War 1945-1957 (1990)



Treaty of Calcutta signed

'It has been announced that a treaty ending the Korean War has been signed in Calcutta, India today. A campaign promise made by Thomas Dewey last year is now fulfilled and the Korean War is officially over. North Korea refused to attend talks until late January, when their leader Kim Il-Sung was captured near the Soviet border by an Army Ranger raiding party. With Kim imprisoned in Allied-held Pyongyang, North Korean negotiators have reluctantly agreed that the PRC will manage their foreign policy until 1 January 1963.'

The Washington Post, April 1953



Everest conquered at last

'New-Zealander Edmund Hillary and Nepalese Sherpa Tenzing Norgay have reached the summit of Mount Everest. They are the first ever human beings to have reached the top of the world's tallest mountain.

The Washington Post, May 1953



McCarthy: Why I gave up drinking

'Senator Joseph McCarthy, a notable anti-communist, has announced on an interview with CBS that he has given up on alcohol. McCarthy said "Recently I noticed that I had been drinking quite a lot of alcohol recently, which had adverse effects on my health. On the advice of my doctor, I gave up drinking alcohol last month and I am feeling a lot healthier.'

The Washington Post, June 1953



Senator Robert A. Taft has died

'It has been announced that Senator Taft of Ohio died in his sleep last night. The 63-year-old was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer in April and after 14 years of service on Capitol Hill, he peacefully passed shortly after midnight.

The Washington Post, July 1953



'In France, tensions rose dramatically in the first half of 1953. After Prime Minister Mollet, a socialist, tried to nationalise the steel and coal industry the conservative deputies forced Mollet to call an early election. The results were inconclusive, but the communist PCF had the highest number of seats. After negotiations between the Socialist and PCF fell through, PCF General-Secretary Jaques Duclos was appointed Prime Minister. This set off alarm bells, and Secretary Dulles attempted to organise a coup, but there was little interest among the French military. There were protests almost every week and strikes every month as the 4th Republic began to crumble.

In Italy the situation was not much better. In the General Election in June, the ruling centrist coalition led by Prime Minister Alcide de Gasperi lost 80 seats in the Chamber of Deputies, leaving it with 240 seats, 6 below the amount needed for a majority. The communists did well in the south, where 52% of homes had no running drinking water. The Holy See moderated its stance, endorsing Gasperi's Christian Democracy, but not taking any action on Catholics who voted Communist. Gasperi managed to stay in power by forming a coalition with the neo-Fascist Italian Social Movement, a move criticised by many.'

The Cold War 1945-1957 (1990)

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Thirteen – Lucky for Some, Unlucky for Others (August-December 1953) ​

Mass strike in France

'Yesterday, over 4 million workers went on strike over emergency austerity measures in France. Communist Prime Minister Jaques Duclos said to reporters "I am a Marxist and I naturally oppose austerity measures and support the rights of the worker. However, this was not my decision to make. The economy is in turmoil and I had no choice when Conservative and Centrist Deputies forced this upon me". Many in Duclos' PCF party have accused him of selling out, an accusation he strongly denies.'

The Washington Post, August 1953


Chief Justice Fred Vinson has died

'Fred M Vinson has died at the age of 63. He was Chief Justice of the United States for 7 years after being appointed by President Truman in 1946. Vinson was a moderate in a polarised court appointed entirely by Presidents Roosevelt and Truman and managed to make peace between two opposing factions led by Justices Black and Frankfurter. He swore in President Dewey, who has expressed his sadness at Vinson's death, at both of his inaugurations. His last public appearance was the overturn of Justice Douglas' grant of stay of execution to the Rosenbergs.'

The Chicago Daily Tribune, September 1953


Khrushchev new Premier of the Soviet Union

'Nikita Khrushchev was today named as the new Soviet Premier. He replaced former Premier and Head of the NKVD Lavrentiy Beria. Khrushchev was formerly First Secretary of the Ukrainian Communist Party and oversaw the collectivisation of that country. The Post understands Khrushchev, a former member of Stalin's inner circle, to be a moderate, as opposed to Molotov (a Stalinist) and Beria (a Liberal Reformer). Henry A Wallace, Vice-President from 1941-1945 and Progressive Party candidate in 1948, has expressedhis dismay at the change. Wallace is an opponent of the Cold War, tooped Gallup polls for 'Most Disproved of Person in the US' in 1948, 1949 and 1950. He is currently under investigation by the FBI for alleged Communist links.'

The Washington Post, October 1953


'The appointment of Earl Warren as Chief Justice of the United States marked a turning point in American judicial history. The former Governor of California (1943-1948) and Vice-President (1949-1953) was a Liberal Republican of the same breed as President Dewey and a very high-profile politician. His selection began a tradition of appointing high-profile politicians to the Chief Justiceship.'

The Supreme Court: Taft to ??? (2007)


Adenauer re-elected as Chancellor of West Germany

'Konrad Adenauer's Christian Democratic Union has increased its seat totals in the German Federal Election. It gained 93 seats, putting its total at 237 seats, which is 18 short of the amount needed for a majority. Chancellor Adenauer has continued governing in a coalition of the ruling CDU/CSU and all the other parties except the Social Democratic SPD.'

The Washington Post, October 1953


Wallace arrested by FBI

'Henry A Wallace has been arrested by the FBI at Washington National Airport. The former Vice-President had previously flown to the Soviet Union to try and meet with General Secretary Molotov and former Premier Beria but had been briefly detained and then deported. J. Edgar Hoover, Director of the FBI, has announced that Wallace has been charged with Conspiracy to Commit Espionage and Treason. Both are Capital Penalties. Former President Truman, who succeeded Wallace as Vice-President has condemned this move, calling it "a barbaric move that has attacked an innocent and dignified man". There have been calls from some for President Dewey to remove Hoover from office.'

The Washington Post, November 1953

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Fourteen – Winter in Paris (December 1953-March 1954)

​

'The government of Jacques Duclos reached crisis in December 1953. The train drivers were on strike, which meant goods couldn’t be transported around the country in large amounts, crashing the economy. Colonel Pierre Badout [1] and several other officers decided enough was enough. At 9am on Thursday January 7th, 12 army trucks pulled up outside Hotel Matignon, home of the French Prime Minister. Uncontested, they marched into the building and arrested Prime Minister Duclos. 250 Policemen attempted to break in at 1pm, but they were stopped by the soldiers. 97 officers died, compared to 1 soldier. Duclos addressed the nation at 2.30pm and resigned the Premiership, appointing retired General Charles de Gaulle in his place. Duclos was locked in a room in Hotel Matignon after the address and was transferred to a maximum-security prison on January 10.'

The Cold War 1945-1957 (1990)



'Originally I was unaware of Badout's coup attempt. I was initially reluctant however, I knew Pierre as a Commandant when he came to England with me. I knew that my beautiful country was in need of a saviour, so I agreed to become Prime Minister. Luckily, I was in Paris at the time so I met with Badout and two other officers (a Commandant and another Colonel) in Matignon at 7.30am on January 8. We agreed that I needed a key ally as President, so we chose Jacques Soustelle, leader of the friendly RPF, and forced out Socialist President Auriol.'

De Gaulle: A Life (1967)


'On January 14, 800,000 Socialist and Communist protestors marched down the Champs Elysees, demanding Duclos' return to the Premiership. It turned into a riot and the Police and Army got involved. It ended with 37 protestors dead, 16 policemen dead and 4 soldiers dead. The same night, ex-Prime Minister Guy Mollet escaped to Lille and the Socialist Republic of France was declared there. The French Civil War had begun.

France, January 14 1954. Red – Socialist Territory, Blue – Government Territory, Purple – Mixed Control

On January 17, 25,000 government soldiers marched on the SRF held city of Rouen. 9500 volunteers had hastily been put together to defend the city, but the complacent government forces were routed by the highly-motivated Socialists, suffering 9000 casualties compared to the SRF's 1200 and were forced to retreat.

Meanwhile in London, Whitehall was going berserk. The SRF occupied Calais, only 20 miles from England. The RAF was scarmbled and bombed Pas de Calais in the 'Calais Blitz' from January 16th-February 3rd. Like the 1940s Blitz, it failed in its primary objective, to destroy the morale of the civilian population. Two more great victories for the Socialists at Compagnie (January 24) and Saint-Etienne (February 2) boosted morale and convinced Molotov to back the SRF. Britain abandoned their bombardment policy when anti-aircraft guns were smuggled in from East Germany and the RAF began losing planes. Recognising that D-Day 2.0 would be near impossible, Attlee began talking to De Gaulle, who was no anglophile, about landing troops in government-held Cherbourg. Spurred on by their recent victories, the SRF went on the offensive in February. The Riviera Offensive looked to take Marseille, Toulon and Nice before reaching the Italian border. Due to troop shortages, Marseille and Toulon were quickly taken, but they were held off at a small seaside town called Le Lavandou. The 5000 government troops managed to hold off a much larger Socialist force of 18,000, albeit with 3000 casualties. The small force under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Henri Vandier managed to hold the town, even when completely encircled, until February 28, when the French Navy evacuated them. Vandier was promoted to full Colonel and put in charge of the defence of Nice. He was very successful and managed to push the Socialists back to Toulon by the end of March.'

The Cold War 1945-1957 (1990)

[1] Badout is the first character in this TL who does not exist in OTL. Lets just say he was a random French Army officer who was lost to history.

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Fifteen – The Roads of Prosperity (March-July 1954) ​

Dewey to send troops into France

'President Dewey yesterday made a speech that will go down in history. Some people are already calling it one of the greatest American speeches. In Lincoln, Nebraska Dewey said these words "Recently the United States have been in many wars, and many are wondering why we fight. Well as our brave soldiers prepare to go to France I will tell you why we fight. We fight because it is God's will to defend the freedoms of those who are oppressed, we fight because it is our duty to hold back the tide of Communist tyranny, but most importantly we fight because we must protect the freedom of those who cannot protect it themselves". General Matthew Ridgway will be leading the expedition to France.'

The Chicago Daily Tribune, March 1954



Meet the face behind the booming economy

'Over the last 2 years, our economy has gone from strength to strength. Many have credited Nelson A. Rockefeller, Secretary of the Treasury since 1952, with the boom due to his progressive taxation policies. His philosophy of higher taxes, which enables the administration and congress to spend money on social programs, has been labelled 'practically Marxism' by conservative Senator John W Bricker, but allegedly has caused the massive boom in the economy recently.'

The Washington Post, March 1954

Secretary Rockefeller

'An issue that came to prominence in Spring 1954 was that of Vietnam. The French, colonial occupiers of the country, lost a key battle at Dien Bien Phu after the country's civil war meant that the fortress couldn’t be resupplied, and the Americans and British were also tied down too much in France. However, someone who did notice the situation was a minor undersecretary in the State Department and ex-army Colonel called Dean Rusk. He registered his concerns with Secretary of State John Dulles, who was slow to act, but it was a priority issue by late April. Despite Dewey's concerns about getting involved in yet another war, he was persuaded by Dulles and Marshall to send 250 Marines to train the forces of pro-western State of Vietnam under Bao Dai, which was opposed to the Communist Viet Minh.'

The Cold War: 1945 to 1957 (1990)



'Between April and June 1954, a conference was held in Geneva, Switzerland which looked to solve some border disputes in East Asia. The first question was the border between North and South Korea. The tiny state, which was practically part of China wished to return to pre-Korean War borders, but the motion was dismissed, as was the border question. The second question was the division of French Indochina. After much deliberation it was divided into the Kingdom of Cambodia, the Kingdom of Laos, and a Communist state in Northern Vietnam (the Democratic Republic of Vietnam) and a capitalist state in the South (the State of Vietnam).'

Communism in East Asia (2001)



Wallace on trial

'Ex-Vice President Henry A. Wallace has been put on trial at Washington, DC this week. He was arrested by the FBI in November at Washington National Airport after returning from the Soviet Union and he has been charged with Treason and Conspiracy to Commit Espionage. FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover has told reporters "we are treating the Wallace case just like any other case for Treason and Espionage, it does not matter that he was formerly in a position of power, we are committed to giving the accused party a fair trial, as per the 5th Amendment to the United States Constitution and will provide an evidence-based case for the prosecution". Mr Wallace is being represented by Thurgood Marshall, a notable legal counsel for the pro-Civil Rights NAACP. Some observers have worriedly pointed out Marshall's apparent friendly relations with Hoover and the FBI.'

The Washington Post, May 1954



Hungary win the World Cup

'The Hungarian National Team has won the Football World Cup in Switzerland. They managed to beat West Germany 2-0 in Berne, with star player and team captain Ferenc Puskás scoring both goals. The Hungarian team were the favourites, and their victory surprised no one. They made a reputation as a formidable team after defeating England 6-3 at Wembley last year, the first time that England had lost to a foreign team at home.'

The Daily Telegraph, July 1954

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Sixteen – A Long Road to Peace (March-July 1954) ​

'The French Civil War was not going well for Charles De Gaulle. The Socialists controlled several major cities, such as Lille, Marseille, Le Havre and Bordeaux, the British bombing campaign in Pas de Calais wasn’t doing anything and the Americans were taking ages to arrive. His neighbours were all doing nothing – Franco in Spain had not commented on the War as of yet, Belgium and Luxembourg declared their neutrality and all Adenauer had done so far is offer to negotiate a peace settlement. However, Badout (now a Brigadier) had seen a chance to swiftly end the war. There was a gap between the two Socialist-held cities of Rouen and Beauvais. If a large enough force could sneak through the gap, then they could quickly take Rouen, Le Havre and the mouth of the Seine. Known as the Badout offensive, 35,000 French soldiers and 6500 American soldiers set off from Paris on March 8. Unfortunately, they were sighted by villagers 31 miles from Rouen. This meant the city was prepared for the attack, and the following Second Battle of Rouen was a massacre. The French troops were led very poorly and suffered 16,500 casualties, while the Americans were led by skilful Brigadier-General Phillip Hunter. Although 3000 of the 6500 strong US Brigade were killed, the Americans managed to hold the line 12km south of Rouen, making sure the Battle wasn't a complete failure. On March 23, General Ridgway arrived in Paris and a week later 15,000 British troops arrived as well. Ridgway's strategy was to focus on taking the south of France before the north. On April 1 Ridgway commenced Operation Enforcement, which culminated in the Capture of Bordeaux (April 9-13). This success was greatly beneficial for morale and it convinced Adenauer to send 10,000 West German soldiers to assist. Next, Ridgway began Operation Freedom Assault on April 28, which aimed to capture Toulouse, however a strategic defeat at the Battle of Boe (May 4) resulted in the lines stabilising. Ridgway was a veteran of World War I and didn't want the horrific stalemate on the Western Front to happen here, so he went south to the Pyrenees instead. Ridgway's soldiers marching through the pilgrimage site of Lourdes on May 15 remains the most iconic image from the French Civil War to this date. Pau was captured on May 18 and Bayonne was taken on May 26. After a hasty meeting with Franco, the fascist dictator of Spain, on May 30, Spain agreed to join the war and Ridgway then turned towards Toulouse once more on June 3.'

The Cold War 1945 to 1957 (1990)

'The President of the SRF, Guy Mollet, was in denial. In the space of 2 months, his forces had gone from winning a civil war to only controlling two areas of France. However, his commanders had found a way to turn the war in their favour once more. Brigadier Badout was still in charge of the allied forces for the Northeast France area, but after the almost complete failure of the Second Battle of Rouen his men had very little faith in him. A large frontal assault on his main garrison at Cergy would likely scatter his troops and leave the Socialists with a clear path to Paris. A mighty force of 83,000 men was mustered and under the cover of darkness they attacked Cergy on June 4. the Battle of Cergy (June 4-5) would be studied for decades to become, but 8000 of the 22,000 strong garrison were killed, while 10,000 were captured and sent to work in factories. De Gaulle was stunned and by the time he could organise a defence of Paris, Saint-Denis was plagued by riots, and the Socialists were kilometres away from the same town. The Battle of Saint-Denis (June 9-25) was brutal and lengthy. Looting was commonplace and the allied troops had trouble moving around due to the riots and volumeof people on the streets. Eventually after a large bombing campaign and deadly urban warfare, the Socialists were forced to halt in Saint-Denis.'

Great Military Campaigns (1996)

'On June 8 General Ridgeway arrived at Toulouse with his large army. After some brief skirmishes, he had managed to encircle the city by June 10. The city surrendered 5 days later, and there was much celebration for General Ridgway in cities across America, Britain and De Gaulle's France. De Gaulle and the British wished for Ridgway to be transferred to the North-eastern front, so he could repel the Socialists, however, the Pentagon and Ridgway himself wished for the General to stay in the south. After it was agreed he would stay in the south, he began drawing up plans for the ambitious Operation Spearhead, which aimed to reach the Italian border by January 1. His troops set out from Toulouse on June 27, heading towards the coast.'

The Cold War 1945 to 1957 (1990)


General Matthew Ridgway

 

[King_Arthur]

Chapter Seventeen - The Failing Bureau of Investigation (August-December 1954) ​

Wallace sentenced to 18 years in jail

'Former Vice-President Henry A. Wallace was sentenced to 18 years in jail today for Conspiracy to Commit Espionage. The prosecution team did seek to have him charged for Treason, but that charge was dismissed by Judge Warren Burger. Many Americans were shocked by the trial, even Senator McCarthy, known for his anti-communist 'witch hunts' a couple of years ago, told The Post "this time Hoover has gone too far. Although he may have Communist sympathies, I trust Vice-President Wallace is a good and honest man, who would not have committed treason to his country any more than you and I would have".'

The Washington Post, September 1954


Hoover fired as FBI Director

'J. Edgar Hoover has been relieved of his duties as Director of the FBI by the Attorney General, effective October 1st. It has been announced by the Department of Justice that the Deputy Director of the FBI, Clyde Tolson, will replace him. There has been speculation that Hoover's dismissal may be related to the Wallace Trial, dubbed the Trial of the Century by some, but when asked the Attorney General gave no comment.'

The Chicago Daily Tribune, September 1954

Clyde Tolson


Hoover fires entire FBI

'On his last day as Director of the FBI, J. Edgar Hoover has reportedly fired every single FBI employee he has the power to. This extremely unprecedented move was very harshly criticised by many, including Harry Byrd, Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, who said "Director Hoover should have not let his ego get in control". Hoover has not released an official statement as of yet.'

The Washington Post, October 1954


'The 1954 midterms were a surprising success for the Republicans. The war in France had a rally around the flag effect, so they gained a decent 23 seats, while the Democrats and the SRP both gained one seat each, putting the composition of the House at 210 for the Republicans, 209 for the Democrats, and the SRP kept 16 seats. This threw the House into crisis, as neither party had a majority. Sam Rayburn managed to cut a deal with the SRP, and he was narrowly re-elected Speaker by a vote of 225-210.

In the Senate, the GOP also made gains. They won seats in Colorado, Iowa, Ohio and Montana, while only losing 1 seat (Oregon). The SRP did awfully, with their candidates often coming in 3rd place.

The Gubernatorial elections were relatively straight forward, but hard-working Representative Franklin D. Roosevelt Jr defeated incumbent Republican Governor Joe R. Hanley in New York.'

The Fifth Party System: US Politics 1932 to 1956 (1990)

 

[King_Arthur]

The House of Representatives

Republicans: 210

Democrats: 209

States' Rights Party: 16

Speaker of the House: Sam Rayburn (D TX-4)


The Senate

Democrats: 51

Republicans: 43

States' Rights Party: 2

President of the Senate: Harold Stassen (R-MN)

President Pro Tempore: Walter F. George (D-GA)


Main Governors

California: Ronald Reagan (D) 1951-

New York: Franklin D. Roosevelt Jr (D) 1955-

Illinois: Adlai Stevenson (D) 1949-

Texas: Allan Shivers (D) 1949-