1 00:00:02,104 --> 00:00:02,860 - Every president since george washington 2 00:00:02,880 --> 00:00:04,437 Has had to define what we mean 3 00:00:04,531 --> 00:00:06,773 By the words, "we the people," 4 00:00:06,792 --> 00:00:09,776 And, "a more perfect union." 5 00:00:09,795 --> 00:00:12,703 In moments of harmony and conflict, 6 00:00:12,723 --> 00:00:15,282 Of growth and severe distress, 7 00:00:15,375 --> 00:00:18,134 In times of triumph and tragedy, 8 00:00:18,287 --> 00:00:21,712 Each of our presidents has had to make a choice 9 00:00:21,807 --> 00:00:26,526 To take us forward or backward, to unite us or divide us, 10 00:00:28,146 --> 00:00:32,148 To greet the future with open arms or a clenched fist. 11 00:00:32,242 --> 00:00:35,485 The choices they made and how they acted on them 12 00:00:35,637 --> 00:00:38,413 Is the story of the american presidency. 13 00:00:47,073 --> 00:00:48,406 When I was finishing high school 14 00:00:48,425 --> 00:00:49,758 And looking ahead to college, 15 00:00:49,985 --> 00:00:52,335 I knew exactly where I wanted to go, 16 00:00:52,487 --> 00:00:55,246 Georgetown university school of foreign service. 17 00:00:55,265 --> 00:00:58,174 With the united states firmly established as a superpower 18 00:00:58,327 --> 00:00:59,935 And the cold war in full swing, 19 00:01:01,421 --> 00:01:03,605 I wanted to learn everything I could 20 00:01:03,832 --> 00:01:06,683 About the world beyond our borders. 21 00:01:06,835 --> 00:01:08,852 I wanted to understand the powerful forces 22 00:01:09,004 --> 00:01:12,597 Shaping our world, how to engage with other nations 23 00:01:12,616 --> 00:01:14,507 And how america could help build 24 00:01:14,526 --> 00:01:19,362 A better, more peaceful and more prosperous future for all. 25 00:01:20,106 --> 00:01:21,939 At georgetown, I was really fortunate 26 00:01:21,959 --> 00:01:24,701 To learn from great professors and fellow students 27 00:01:24,795 --> 00:01:28,538 From every part of america and all around the world. 28 00:01:28,632 --> 00:01:31,191 In fact, my graduating class produced the presidents 29 00:01:31,209 --> 00:01:32,783 Of three nations. 30 00:01:32,803 --> 00:01:35,712 My experience there helped me to better understand 31 00:01:35,864 --> 00:01:39,032 Not only the time I was graduating into, 32 00:01:39,050 --> 00:01:42,719 But the time in which I would eventually serve. 33 00:01:42,871 --> 00:01:45,705 And when I became president, america's role in the world 34 00:01:45,798 --> 00:01:47,374 Was much different than it was 35 00:01:47,467 --> 00:01:49,726 From my earliest predecessors. 36 00:01:49,820 --> 00:01:53,471 Regardless, every president has had to answer 37 00:01:53,490 --> 00:01:58,160 Important questions about when and how to exercise power 38 00:01:58,978 --> 00:01:59,828 In the global arena. 39 00:02:01,165 --> 00:02:04,407 (film reeling) 40 00:02:04,501 --> 00:02:06,960 (upbeat music) 41 00:02:11,842 --> 00:02:13,675 - Theodore roosevelt was, in some respects, 42 00:02:13,826 --> 00:02:16,303 The least likely president in american history. 43 00:02:17,906 --> 00:02:20,757 He was this rich kid born in new york city, 44 00:02:20,909 --> 00:02:23,092 Just before the civil war and he was someone 45 00:02:23,187 --> 00:02:27,004 Who, from a young age, was always trying to prove himself. 46 00:02:27,024 --> 00:02:30,007 He had a lot of enthusiasms, he pursued all of them 47 00:02:30,027 --> 00:02:30,859 To the limit. 48 00:02:32,421 --> 00:02:34,421 He had an extraordinary amount of energy, 49 00:02:34,514 --> 00:02:36,531 He drank a gallon of coffee a day. 50 00:02:38,276 --> 00:02:39,868 Theodore roosevelt was my great-great-grandfather 51 00:02:41,613 --> 00:02:44,113 And in terms of america's place on the world stage, 52 00:02:44,208 --> 00:02:48,877 He has a vision of a robust military powerful nation 53 00:02:50,439 --> 00:02:52,047 That's going to be more of a global actor 54 00:02:52,198 --> 00:02:53,715 Than america had been in the past. 55 00:02:55,535 --> 00:02:58,945 - In 1898, he led the rough riders 56 00:02:59,038 --> 00:03:01,014 During the spanish-american war. 57 00:03:02,784 --> 00:03:04,041 That earned him the vice presidency 58 00:03:04,061 --> 00:03:05,802 Under william mckinley 59 00:03:05,896 --> 00:03:09,397 And then president mckinley was assassinated. 60 00:03:12,719 --> 00:03:14,903 - All of a sudden, he's president, 61 00:03:15,130 --> 00:03:17,313 The youngest president in american history, 62 00:03:17,466 --> 00:03:20,149 Absolutely convinced that he knows what's best 63 00:03:20,302 --> 00:03:23,319 For the country and that the more of the world 64 00:03:23,472 --> 00:03:26,139 That was exposed to american influence, 65 00:03:26,232 --> 00:03:27,540 The better the world would be. 66 00:03:30,254 --> 00:03:32,712 This was the age of the great european empires 67 00:03:34,091 --> 00:03:35,148 And roosevelt thought that the united states 68 00:03:35,241 --> 00:03:37,259 Ought to play in that league. 69 00:03:38,987 --> 00:03:41,504 - But, we have to remember that back in the earliest phases 70 00:03:41,656 --> 00:03:44,599 Of american history, the predominant approach 71 00:03:44,751 --> 00:03:48,845 To foreign policy was to avoid as much as possible 72 00:03:48,997 --> 00:03:51,106 Entanglement with foreign powers. 73 00:03:52,776 --> 00:03:56,444 - George washington and all of the founders knew very well 74 00:03:56,596 --> 00:04:01,357 How europe's position and its sometimes very messy borders 75 00:04:01,451 --> 00:04:04,953 Had led to a lot of conflict, strife and warfare. 76 00:04:06,456 --> 00:04:09,440 And so, from the very beginning, they wanted to avoid 77 00:04:09,459 --> 00:04:12,127 That violence that had plagued the european continent. 78 00:04:14,856 --> 00:04:16,189 - Washington's "farewell address", 79 00:04:16,207 --> 00:04:19,876 Which he publishes in 1796 lays out very clearly 80 00:04:19,970 --> 00:04:22,137 That the united states should not be involved 81 00:04:22,364 --> 00:04:24,472 In formal alliances with other nations. 82 00:04:25,867 --> 00:04:27,216 We should trade with the world, 83 00:04:27,369 --> 00:04:29,811 But we should not form military alliances. 84 00:04:31,481 --> 00:04:34,298 - His "farewell address" really did come to define 85 00:04:34,318 --> 00:04:37,986 American foreign policy for the next century, plus. 86 00:04:39,489 --> 00:04:42,324 - That aversion to great power politics 87 00:04:42,475 --> 00:04:46,286 Starts to change in the very early 20th century. 88 00:04:48,223 --> 00:04:50,981 Teddy roosevelt was comfortable with the idea 89 00:04:51,001 --> 00:04:53,168 That, you know, the united states had matured to the point 90 00:04:53,395 --> 00:04:55,670 Where it really could get deeply involved 91 00:04:55,822 --> 00:04:58,155 In global geopolitics. 92 00:04:58,175 --> 00:05:01,084 - Theodore roosevelt wants america to grow in stature, 93 00:05:01,236 --> 00:05:03,570 But he also came across at the right time 94 00:05:03,663 --> 00:05:05,588 Because america is industrializing, 95 00:05:05,740 --> 00:05:08,332 America's getting bigger and america was poised 96 00:05:08,426 --> 00:05:09,351 To take that step. 97 00:05:12,080 --> 00:05:15,690 - And roosevelt gets that opportunity in 1904. 98 00:05:15,842 --> 00:05:17,525 The eyes of the world are watching 99 00:05:17,752 --> 00:05:21,029 As the russo-japanese war continues to 100 00:05:21,180 --> 00:05:24,273 Rage over manchuria. 101 00:05:24,368 --> 00:05:27,869 We're witnessing the tiny island nation of japan 102 00:05:28,096 --> 00:05:31,614 Really check russia, one of the largest land powers 103 00:05:31,708 --> 00:05:32,374 At that time. 104 00:05:33,877 --> 00:05:36,044 Neither side wants to yield and it has been 105 00:05:36,195 --> 00:05:38,046 A terrible and bloody war. 106 00:05:39,441 --> 00:05:41,549 But also, there is deep concern 107 00:05:41,701 --> 00:05:44,293 About america's imperial holdings, 108 00:05:44,446 --> 00:05:47,722 Specifically guam, hawaii and the philippines. 109 00:05:49,059 --> 00:05:51,542 Roosevelt recognizes that whoever wins, 110 00:05:51,561 --> 00:05:54,229 It can upset the balance of power in asia. 111 00:05:55,624 --> 00:05:57,140 He's concerned about a russian victory 112 00:05:57,292 --> 00:05:59,809 And what that will mean for the pacific. 113 00:05:59,961 --> 00:06:02,311 But he's also worried about the japanese victory 114 00:06:02,406 --> 00:06:04,906 And how that could upset the balance, as well. 115 00:06:05,057 --> 00:06:06,299 - [kermit] and so, the question is 116 00:06:06,392 --> 00:06:09,652 How could american interests be secured 117 00:06:09,746 --> 00:06:12,580 With a minimum investment of american resources? 118 00:06:14,251 --> 00:06:17,326 - And so, that's really where theodore roosevelt came in. 119 00:06:17,421 --> 00:06:20,088 (upbeat music) 120 00:06:20,239 --> 00:06:23,574 - So, roosevelt proposed a conference 121 00:06:23,593 --> 00:06:26,319 To be held in portsmouth, new hampshire, 122 00:06:26,337 --> 00:06:28,337 Where the foreign ministers of japan and russia 123 00:06:28,490 --> 00:06:29,489 Were invited to the united states 124 00:06:29,507 --> 00:06:30,723 As it never happened before. 125 00:06:32,510 --> 00:06:35,344 - It would not have occurred to nearly all the presidents 126 00:06:35,497 --> 00:06:37,013 Of the 19th century to think that the president 127 00:06:37,107 --> 00:06:39,499 Of the united states should become this mediator, 128 00:06:39,517 --> 00:06:42,018 This arbiter, between two countries 129 00:06:42,112 --> 00:06:45,071 As far from the united states as russia and japan. 130 00:06:46,616 --> 00:06:47,782 But it was something that occurred to roosevelt 131 00:06:48,009 --> 00:06:49,617 And whatever occurred to roosevelt, 132 00:06:49,844 --> 00:06:51,619 He almost immediately started doing. 133 00:06:53,290 --> 00:06:56,124 - International affairs came naturally to him 134 00:06:57,610 --> 00:07:00,853 And given the opportunity to end the war 135 00:07:00,872 --> 00:07:04,040 And do what we, today, would call a camp david-like meeting, 136 00:07:04,134 --> 00:07:07,710 Bringing warring nations to a diplomatic table, 137 00:07:07,804 --> 00:07:09,137 He went with it. 138 00:07:09,364 --> 00:07:10,955 - But of course there's danger, too. 139 00:07:10,974 --> 00:07:13,549 If he takes this on and fails, 140 00:07:13,643 --> 00:07:15,768 Then it's gonna discredit american diplomacy. 141 00:07:16,646 --> 00:07:19,147 (upbeat music) 142 00:07:20,967 --> 00:07:22,558 Theodore roosevelt isn't actually at 143 00:07:22,652 --> 00:07:24,301 The peace conference, 144 00:07:24,395 --> 00:07:26,654 He's staying at the summer white house in sagamore hill, 145 00:07:26,881 --> 00:07:28,781 But he's playing a very active role. 146 00:07:30,735 --> 00:07:33,069 He's receiving visits from the russian 147 00:07:33,163 --> 00:07:36,664 And the japanese ambassador and behind the scenes, 148 00:07:36,816 --> 00:07:38,741 He's really managing what goes on. 149 00:07:38,835 --> 00:07:40,076 (upbeat music) 150 00:07:40,228 --> 00:07:42,395 And, as always with theodore roosevelt, 151 00:07:42,413 --> 00:07:45,155 He was hypoenergetic, following things very closely 152 00:07:45,250 --> 00:07:49,010 By telegram, he wanted to keep them isolated from others, 153 00:07:49,237 --> 00:07:50,586 So they would have to talk to him, 154 00:07:50,680 --> 00:07:52,997 Doing everything he could to cajole both sides 155 00:07:53,016 --> 00:07:54,590 To an agreement. 156 00:07:54,684 --> 00:07:56,759 And it's a very good negotiating tactic, right? 157 00:07:56,853 --> 00:07:59,003 Bring the people away from their home territory 158 00:07:59,022 --> 00:08:00,580 And away from any other friends, 159 00:08:00,673 --> 00:08:02,248 That way you control the agenda. 160 00:08:02,267 --> 00:08:03,599 And he did. 161 00:08:03,752 --> 00:08:05,360 It was a very hubristic thing for him to do, 162 00:08:05,587 --> 00:08:07,270 I mean, you have a count from russia, 163 00:08:07,364 --> 00:08:09,772 You have a japanese aristocrat who have come. 164 00:08:09,866 --> 00:08:12,367 (upbeat music) 165 00:08:18,542 --> 00:08:21,025 And this american president is basically telling them 166 00:08:21,044 --> 00:08:23,027 What to do and controlling the agenda. 167 00:08:23,046 --> 00:08:25,547 (upbeat music) 168 00:08:37,468 --> 00:08:40,286 - The portsmouth peace treaty would end 169 00:08:40,305 --> 00:08:42,713 The russo-japanese war. 170 00:08:42,732 --> 00:08:45,567 It's neither a victory for the japanese, 171 00:08:45,794 --> 00:08:47,460 Nor is it a victory for the russians, 172 00:08:47,478 --> 00:08:50,572 But it does bring peace with honor to both parties. 173 00:08:52,150 --> 00:08:55,201 Ultimately, the greatest winner is theodore roosevelt. 174 00:08:59,641 --> 00:09:01,065 - For the president of the united states 175 00:09:01,084 --> 00:09:04,085 To step smack in the middle of this war 176 00:09:04,236 --> 00:09:08,164 Caused people around the world to look on the united states 177 00:09:08,316 --> 00:09:10,666 And especially the president of the united states 178 00:09:10,760 --> 00:09:13,653 As this individual who might have a lot to do 179 00:09:13,746 --> 00:09:15,504 With the way the world evolved 180 00:09:15,657 --> 00:09:17,432 In the succeeding 20th century. 181 00:09:19,251 --> 00:09:21,177 And there are all sorts of people who thought, 182 00:09:21,329 --> 00:09:22,995 "boy, I had no idea that theodore roosevelt 183 00:09:23,014 --> 00:09:25,514 Had this in him," because through much of his life, 184 00:09:25,609 --> 00:09:29,110 He was one who could not speak, except to shout 185 00:09:29,261 --> 00:09:31,003 And he couldn't write, except in capital letters 186 00:09:31,097 --> 00:09:32,405 And all exclamation points. 187 00:09:33,766 --> 00:09:35,599 But he winds up winning the nobel peace prize, 188 00:09:35,693 --> 00:09:36,451 For heaven's sakes. 189 00:09:38,179 --> 00:09:39,937 - It's another sign that an american president 190 00:09:40,031 --> 00:09:41,289 Is being taken seriously. 191 00:09:43,017 --> 00:09:45,368 This is a coming out party for the united states. 192 00:09:45,520 --> 00:09:48,296 We were joining the club of elite nations 193 00:09:48,447 --> 00:09:50,280 As we had not before. 194 00:09:50,300 --> 00:09:52,800 (upbeat music) 195 00:09:59,050 --> 00:10:01,384 - [bill clinton] by brokering the world's stabilizing peace, 196 00:10:01,478 --> 00:10:04,053 Teddy roosevelt proved that america is a player 197 00:10:04,205 --> 00:10:05,313 On the world stage. 198 00:10:06,650 --> 00:10:09,800 Then, a half century later, another conflict 199 00:10:09,894 --> 00:10:13,321 And another roosevelt would claim for the united states 200 00:10:13,472 --> 00:10:16,899 A much larger role on that stage. 201 00:10:16,993 --> 00:10:19,810 To get us there, president franklin roosevelt 202 00:10:19,829 --> 00:10:22,571 Has to convince americans to become global defenders 203 00:10:22,666 --> 00:10:24,314 Of democracy. 204 00:10:24,334 --> 00:10:27,335 But can he convince a weary public to join that fight? 205 00:10:33,843 --> 00:10:36,344 (film reeling) 206 00:10:42,593 --> 00:10:45,669 - So, the year is 1940 and it's franklin delano roosevelt's 207 00:10:45,763 --> 00:10:47,021 Seventh year as president. 208 00:10:48,858 --> 00:10:51,751 - He did something that had never been done before, 209 00:10:51,844 --> 00:10:54,511 He ran for and won a third term. 210 00:10:54,531 --> 00:10:57,532 - And I will faithfully execute the office 211 00:10:57,683 --> 00:11:00,426 Of president of the united states. 212 00:11:00,445 --> 00:11:03,612 - Roosevelt made the argument that the international crisis 213 00:11:03,765 --> 00:11:06,708 Was so great that what the united states needed 214 00:11:06,935 --> 00:11:09,711 Was an experienced leader at the helm 215 00:11:11,030 --> 00:11:12,547 And americans were persuaded. 216 00:11:14,217 --> 00:11:16,292 (crowd cheering) 217 00:11:16,386 --> 00:11:19,295 - At the time, world war ii was essentially raging 218 00:11:19,447 --> 00:11:23,224 Across europe and the united states has yet 219 00:11:23,451 --> 00:11:25,968 To become involved in the situation. 220 00:11:26,062 --> 00:11:29,379 This is a nation that still hasn't fully recovered 221 00:11:29,399 --> 00:11:34,068 From the great depression and there is a strong, strong 222 00:11:34,295 --> 00:11:37,387 Anti-war, pro-isolationist sentiment 223 00:11:37,482 --> 00:11:38,981 Within the united states. 224 00:11:39,133 --> 00:11:40,891 And not simply just people on the ground, 225 00:11:40,985 --> 00:11:43,060 But certainly politicians. 226 00:11:43,154 --> 00:11:48,140 - Members of congress took action as early as 1936 and 1937 227 00:11:48,159 --> 00:11:52,069 To legislate limitations on anything the president could do 228 00:11:52,088 --> 00:11:54,255 That might get the united states into war. 229 00:11:55,650 --> 00:11:57,258 So, they prevented roosevelt, for example, 230 00:11:57,485 --> 00:12:00,577 From selling weapons to belligerents, 231 00:12:00,597 --> 00:12:02,597 And the idea was to tie roosevelt's hands 232 00:12:02,748 --> 00:12:03,914 And to make it clear to the world 233 00:12:03,933 --> 00:12:05,415 That the united states was doing everything 234 00:12:05,510 --> 00:12:06,601 To really stay neutral. 235 00:12:10,440 --> 00:12:12,181 - [edward] this is edward miles speaking from london. 236 00:12:12,275 --> 00:12:14,000 There were more german planes over the coast 237 00:12:14,018 --> 00:12:16,444 Of britain today than at any time since the war began. 238 00:12:18,448 --> 00:12:21,282 - But, by 1940, it was clear that if the united states 239 00:12:21,509 --> 00:12:24,693 Did not take action, then nazi germany 240 00:12:24,846 --> 00:12:28,605 And its italian allies might actually conquer 241 00:12:28,625 --> 00:12:29,791 Most of europe. 242 00:12:32,687 --> 00:12:35,296 - And so, winston churchill is urging the united states 243 00:12:35,447 --> 00:12:38,524 To get involved in the war effort. 244 00:12:38,543 --> 00:12:42,878 - In 1940, churchill wrote fdr an impassioned letter, 245 00:12:42,972 --> 00:12:46,474 Essentially saying, "mr. President, in the long history 246 00:12:46,701 --> 00:12:49,143 Of the world, this is a thing to do now. 247 00:12:51,055 --> 00:12:55,391 Churchill needed weapons because he was standing alone, 248 00:12:55,543 --> 00:12:59,395 Looking across the channel and was the only force 249 00:12:59,489 --> 00:13:01,989 Standing against adolf hitler at that point. 250 00:13:04,402 --> 00:13:09,163 Fdr read the letter, he was thinking about the congress, 251 00:13:09,315 --> 00:13:11,666 He was thinking about the country. 252 00:13:11,893 --> 00:13:16,579 How do you get a people that do not wish to fight 253 00:13:16,673 --> 00:13:17,505 Into a fight? 254 00:13:21,160 --> 00:13:23,069 He came to him when he was on a fishing cruise 255 00:13:23,162 --> 00:13:25,329 With harry hopkins, his aide, 256 00:13:25,423 --> 00:13:31,410 And hopkins later reported that while they were fishing, 257 00:13:32,004 --> 00:13:36,098 Suddenly fdr came out with what was lend-lease. 258 00:13:36,250 --> 00:13:40,862 - The british people and their grecian allies need ships. 259 00:13:42,590 --> 00:13:46,683 From america, they will get ships. 260 00:13:46,703 --> 00:13:48,518 (audience applauding) 261 00:13:48,538 --> 00:13:51,280 - He proposed what came to be called the lend-lease act 262 00:13:51,374 --> 00:13:54,876 And it was cleverly named because we're gonna lend 263 00:13:55,103 --> 00:13:57,694 Or lease this equipment to the british. 264 00:13:57,714 --> 00:13:59,046 We're not gonna give it to them, 265 00:13:59,273 --> 00:14:00,697 We're not even gonna sell it to them, 266 00:14:00,717 --> 00:14:01,607 We're gonna lend it and when they're done with it, 267 00:14:01,626 --> 00:14:03,384 They'll give it back to us. 268 00:14:03,611 --> 00:14:06,053 - They need tanks and guns and ammunition 269 00:14:07,298 --> 00:14:08,890 And supplies of all kinds. 270 00:14:10,560 --> 00:14:15,062 From america, they will get tanks and guns and ammunition 271 00:14:16,140 --> 00:14:18,399 And supplies of all kinds. 272 00:14:18,626 --> 00:14:20,902 - It was one of roosevelt's genius moves. 273 00:14:21,129 --> 00:14:23,571 You can think fdr's hands are tied, 274 00:14:23,722 --> 00:14:25,297 But like houdini, he'll find a way 275 00:14:25,391 --> 00:14:27,633 To untie himself and be free. 276 00:14:27,726 --> 00:14:31,561 - So, our country is going to be 277 00:14:31,581 --> 00:14:36,492 What our people have proclaimed it must be, 278 00:14:36,994 --> 00:14:39,145 The arsenal of democracy. 279 00:14:40,089 --> 00:14:42,831 - Some critics said lending military weapons 280 00:14:42,984 --> 00:14:45,242 Is like lending chewing gum, once it's been used, 281 00:14:45,336 --> 00:14:46,576 You don't want it back. 282 00:14:46,596 --> 00:14:48,429 But roosevelt got this through congress. 283 00:14:49,933 --> 00:14:53,342 - [leah] and so, he is setting up an idea 284 00:14:53,436 --> 00:14:56,845 That the united states has a duty to be involved 285 00:14:56,940 --> 00:14:59,941 On the national stage and on the international scene. 286 00:15:02,170 --> 00:15:04,111 - Lend-lease was a critical step, 287 00:15:05,856 --> 00:15:10,952 As an isolations nation was moving painfully slowly 288 00:15:11,603 --> 00:15:13,120 Into global responsibility. 289 00:15:14,365 --> 00:15:15,848 - It takes the united states from being 290 00:15:15,941 --> 00:15:18,292 One player among many, as it was 291 00:15:18,444 --> 00:15:20,703 Under theodore roosevelt's presidency, 292 00:15:20,797 --> 00:15:22,538 And it makes the united states, in some ways, 293 00:15:22,690 --> 00:15:23,464 The leading player. 294 00:15:25,526 --> 00:15:27,969 - [h.W.] and then came pearl harbor. 295 00:15:31,882 --> 00:15:34,475 - No matter how long it may take us 296 00:15:36,370 --> 00:15:39,814 To overcome this premeditated invasion, 297 00:15:39,965 --> 00:15:43,209 The american people and their righteous might 298 00:15:43,227 --> 00:15:46,320 Will win through to absolute victory. 299 00:15:47,991 --> 00:15:49,231 - [news announcer] america goes to war. 300 00:15:49,383 --> 00:15:51,492 Men of the army, navy and marines 301 00:15:51,643 --> 00:15:53,828 Clear battlefronts on six continents 302 00:15:53,979 --> 00:15:55,830 To save the homes and ideas of free men 303 00:15:55,981 --> 00:15:57,814 From axis domination. 304 00:15:57,834 --> 00:15:59,667 - It's very clear in this moment 305 00:15:59,818 --> 00:16:02,152 That the might of the united states 306 00:16:02,171 --> 00:16:05,822 And where it decided to put its blood and its treasure 307 00:16:05,842 --> 00:16:08,492 Was going to be one of the really definitive factors 308 00:16:08,511 --> 00:16:10,011 In the second world war. 309 00:16:10,162 --> 00:16:13,681 - And so, by the end of world war ii, 310 00:16:13,832 --> 00:16:17,184 Power has shifted to the new world. 311 00:16:17,411 --> 00:16:20,670 England, the traditional countries of europe, 312 00:16:20,690 --> 00:16:22,598 Are becoming less significant 313 00:16:22,750 --> 00:16:26,268 As the united states and the soviet union 314 00:16:26,420 --> 00:16:29,513 Begin to eye each other wearily 315 00:16:29,532 --> 00:16:32,700 And it becomes clear there was going to be 316 00:16:32,851 --> 00:16:34,869 A superpower rivalry. 317 00:16:38,949 --> 00:16:41,283 - Fdr led us to the verge of victory in world war ii, 318 00:16:41,435 --> 00:16:44,694 But with his sudden death in April of 1945, 319 00:16:44,714 --> 00:16:49,199 It fell to president harry truman to end the conflict. 320 00:16:49,218 --> 00:16:52,611 As truman assumed office, he learned for the first time 321 00:16:52,630 --> 00:16:56,039 About a weapon of terrifying destructive power. 322 00:16:56,059 --> 00:16:58,726 He shouldered a lonely responsibility, 323 00:16:58,877 --> 00:17:01,562 Deciding whether or not to use it. 324 00:17:04,716 --> 00:17:07,193 (film reeling) 325 00:17:12,575 --> 00:17:16,985 - With great humility, I call upon all americans 326 00:17:17,080 --> 00:17:21,916 To help me keep our nation united in the memory 327 00:17:22,143 --> 00:17:26,754 Of our fallen president, we shall not fail. 328 00:17:26,905 --> 00:17:30,649 (audience applauding) 329 00:17:30,742 --> 00:17:32,409 - Harry truman was flabbergasted 330 00:17:32,503 --> 00:17:35,170 When he actually became president of the united states. 331 00:17:35,323 --> 00:17:38,099 He was an achingly candid person. 332 00:17:38,250 --> 00:17:40,101 He said to reporters, "I feel like the sun, the moon 333 00:17:40,252 --> 00:17:42,919 And the stars had fallen in on me." 334 00:17:42,939 --> 00:17:45,331 - The transition from roosevelt to truman 335 00:17:45,349 --> 00:17:48,016 Is a very difficult moment. 336 00:17:48,111 --> 00:17:51,019 The united states is approaching victory in europe, 337 00:17:51,114 --> 00:17:53,948 But the japanese are showing stiff resistance. 338 00:17:55,767 --> 00:18:00,412 And so, the challenge is to bring these wars to an end. 339 00:18:01,773 --> 00:18:03,290 - And so, here we have this moment 340 00:18:03,517 --> 00:18:06,627 Where truman is thrust into the role 341 00:18:06,778 --> 00:18:11,448 Of not just commander in chief of the united states, 342 00:18:11,467 --> 00:18:13,759 But commander in chief of a war effort. 343 00:18:16,881 --> 00:18:21,124 He discovers there is a whole world of information, 344 00:18:21,144 --> 00:18:24,812 Of decisions, of strategy that he has not been privy to. 345 00:18:25,982 --> 00:18:26,981 And he's pretty upset. 346 00:18:29,894 --> 00:18:32,728 - He'd been vice president for all of, what, three months 347 00:18:32,880 --> 00:18:34,155 When he became president. 348 00:18:35,900 --> 00:18:38,659 Fdr had not briefed him on the manhattan project. 349 00:18:42,314 --> 00:18:45,057 - The manhattan project was a top secret 350 00:18:45,150 --> 00:18:47,001 Technology development program 351 00:18:47,228 --> 00:18:50,320 That's objective was to beat the nazis 352 00:18:50,339 --> 00:18:53,990 To developing the first nuclear weapon. 353 00:18:54,010 --> 00:18:58,237 - Just a few months into truman's presidency, 354 00:18:58,255 --> 00:19:01,590 The manhattan project really came to fruition 355 00:19:01,684 --> 00:19:06,762 With the first test of the bomb's effectiveness. 356 00:19:06,856 --> 00:19:10,599 That was the trinity test in the summer of 1945 357 00:19:10,751 --> 00:19:12,818 Out in the deserts of new mexico. 358 00:19:14,939 --> 00:19:19,015 - Trinity was the first test of a implosion style 359 00:19:19,035 --> 00:19:20,609 Nuclear weapon. 360 00:19:20,703 --> 00:19:24,020 (bomb exploding) 361 00:19:24,040 --> 00:19:26,098 You would se this flash, you would see 362 00:19:26,116 --> 00:19:28,358 This tremendous blast wave that would go 363 00:19:28,377 --> 00:19:30,878 Kind of in all directions, out and up, 364 00:19:31,029 --> 00:19:33,839 You would see the thermal energy coming from the fireball 365 00:19:35,609 --> 00:19:38,944 And then they would also see the rising of a mushroom cloud, 366 00:19:38,963 --> 00:19:42,130 The quintessential symbol of nuclear weapons. 367 00:19:42,283 --> 00:19:44,116 And if you think about dropping 368 00:19:44,209 --> 00:19:46,468 That level of destructive force on a city, 369 00:19:46,620 --> 00:19:48,187 You can level it in an instant. 370 00:19:51,459 --> 00:19:52,975 - Harry truman had to start thinking about, 371 00:19:53,127 --> 00:19:54,217 "okay, do we use this?" 372 00:19:54,311 --> 00:19:56,128 "this could end the war." 373 00:19:56,146 --> 00:19:59,222 And this is one where the whole decision 374 00:19:59,242 --> 00:20:00,908 Fell on harry truman's shoulders. 375 00:20:02,411 --> 00:20:05,304 - One of the most fateful decisions in human history, 376 00:20:05,322 --> 00:20:10,084 If not the most fateful, falls to an american president 377 00:20:11,236 --> 00:20:12,586 With three months on the job. 378 00:20:14,590 --> 00:20:17,666 A united states senator, veteran of world war I, 379 00:20:17,760 --> 00:20:21,762 A good and decent and thoughtful man, but my god. 380 00:20:24,249 --> 00:20:26,249 - So, the first thing that truman had to deal with 381 00:20:26,269 --> 00:20:29,845 Is are you willing to have, in effect, 382 00:20:29,939 --> 00:20:33,732 The blood of 100,000, maybe, civilians on your hands? 383 00:20:36,520 --> 00:20:38,837 On the flip side, there was the question, 384 00:20:38,856 --> 00:20:42,241 Well, okay, if I don't use it, what does that mean? 385 00:20:44,512 --> 00:20:46,178 Worst case scenario is the war might continue 386 00:20:46,196 --> 00:20:47,288 For another year. 387 00:20:49,016 --> 00:20:51,683 Truman had to ask himself, "okay, how are you 388 00:20:51,702 --> 00:20:54,944 Gonna explain this to the mothers and fathers, 389 00:20:54,964 --> 00:20:58,040 The children of american servicemen 390 00:20:58,192 --> 00:21:00,208 Killed in the invasion of japan 391 00:21:00,303 --> 00:21:03,695 When they learn that you were sitting on this bomb 392 00:21:03,714 --> 00:21:07,290 That might have saved those 50,000 american lives?" 393 00:21:07,310 --> 00:21:10,035 How are you gonna answer that question? 394 00:21:10,054 --> 00:21:12,721 - [harry] as president of the united states, 395 00:21:12,873 --> 00:21:15,707 I had the fateful responsibility of deciding 396 00:21:15,726 --> 00:21:18,444 Whether or not to use this weapon for the first time. 397 00:21:20,381 --> 00:21:23,157 It was the hardest decision I ever had to make, 398 00:21:24,827 --> 00:21:28,162 But the president cannot duck hard problems, 399 00:21:28,313 --> 00:21:30,480 He cannot pass the buck. 400 00:21:30,499 --> 00:21:33,667 - So, truman finally came to the conclusion 401 00:21:33,819 --> 00:21:37,896 That I've got this weapon that could end the war suddenly. 402 00:21:37,915 --> 00:21:41,342 - [harry] I decided that the bomb should be used 403 00:21:41,493 --> 00:21:45,904 In order to end the war quickly and save countless lives, 404 00:21:45,997 --> 00:21:48,140 Japanese, as well as american. 405 00:21:50,244 --> 00:21:55,097 - So, August 6, 1945, the military deploys 406 00:21:55,249 --> 00:21:59,485 The enola gay and it flies over to hiroshima. 407 00:22:00,846 --> 00:22:03,589 (bomb exploding) 408 00:22:03,607 --> 00:22:06,825 The entire city is destroyed in a matter of minutes. 409 00:22:08,596 --> 00:22:12,856 The heat from the blast is so intense 410 00:22:12,875 --> 00:22:15,709 That it actually burns people's shadows into the ground. 411 00:22:17,713 --> 00:22:21,531 - After the first bomb was dropped on hiroshima, 412 00:22:21,550 --> 00:22:25,034 It was clear the japanese were still not gonna surrender 413 00:22:25,129 --> 00:22:28,222 And what was most striking to truman was their defiance. 414 00:22:29,558 --> 00:22:32,134 - If they do not now accept our terms, 415 00:22:32,228 --> 00:22:35,303 They may expect a rain of warring from the air, 416 00:22:35,398 --> 00:22:37,856 The like of which has never been seen on this earth. 417 00:22:39,476 --> 00:22:42,194 - [jeremi] and after the August 9th bombing of nagasaki, 418 00:22:44,573 --> 00:22:46,740 The japanese did surrender on August 14th. 419 00:22:48,577 --> 00:22:51,653 - America's decision to drop the atomic bombs, 420 00:22:51,805 --> 00:22:53,730 I would argue is the most significant moment 421 00:22:53,749 --> 00:22:56,232 In human history since the passion 422 00:22:56,252 --> 00:22:58,585 Of jesus of nazareth in the first century. 423 00:23:00,423 --> 00:23:02,381 Everything afterward was different 424 00:23:05,094 --> 00:23:08,503 Because suddenly we had the capacity 425 00:23:08,656 --> 00:23:10,764 To end all of human life. 426 00:23:15,012 --> 00:23:18,421 - When truman chose to drop two nuclear weapons 427 00:23:18,441 --> 00:23:23,092 By the end of world war ii, he had two objectives. 428 00:23:23,112 --> 00:23:25,520 So, the first was to bring an unconditional surrender 429 00:23:25,673 --> 00:23:28,449 From the japanese leadership, but the second 430 00:23:28,600 --> 00:23:31,510 Was to demonstrate not only that this weapon exists, 431 00:23:31,603 --> 00:23:33,078 But that it exists in number. 432 00:23:36,517 --> 00:23:39,868 - Truman is thinking about the geopolitical order 433 00:23:40,020 --> 00:23:43,371 That's going to come out of the end of the war. 434 00:23:43,466 --> 00:23:46,024 The main question is what can the united states 435 00:23:46,043 --> 00:23:49,136 Project to the soviet union about its own power 436 00:23:49,287 --> 00:23:51,363 And I think this is most significant 437 00:23:51,456 --> 00:23:53,790 In the decision to drop the second bomb 438 00:23:53,809 --> 00:23:57,369 To position the united states in the post-war world 439 00:23:57,462 --> 00:24:00,147 As the dominant global power. 440 00:24:07,138 --> 00:24:09,639 - [bill clinton] america has ushered in a new era, 441 00:24:09,658 --> 00:24:13,494 The atomic age, and with it, a power beyond what any nation 442 00:24:13,645 --> 00:24:15,496 Has ever before possessed. 443 00:24:17,500 --> 00:24:21,076 And as the cold war against the soviet union intensifies, 444 00:24:21,228 --> 00:24:24,579 This power, along with a great deal of foreign aid, 445 00:24:24,732 --> 00:24:26,915 Becomes a key deterrent against unchecked 446 00:24:27,067 --> 00:24:28,467 Communist expansion. 447 00:24:30,254 --> 00:24:32,679 But in that all consuming global fight, 448 00:24:34,091 --> 00:24:36,099 Presidents can end up misusing their might. 449 00:24:37,761 --> 00:24:40,169 This is the dilemma dwight eisenhower faces 450 00:24:40,189 --> 00:24:42,748 Shortly after he takes office. 451 00:24:42,841 --> 00:24:45,083 Just because a president can topple 452 00:24:45,102 --> 00:24:48,320 An unfriendly government, should he? 453 00:24:53,702 --> 00:24:56,203 (film reeling) 454 00:24:58,541 --> 00:25:01,024 (crowd cheering) 455 00:25:01,043 --> 00:25:05,712 - The main pressure that eisenhower's facing in 1953 456 00:25:05,864 --> 00:25:09,274 Is the spread of communism and soviet influence 457 00:25:09,293 --> 00:25:11,109 Around the world. 458 00:25:11,128 --> 00:25:13,962 And the united states foreign policy, at this time, 459 00:25:14,056 --> 00:25:17,391 Is primarily driven by the containment theory, 460 00:25:17,618 --> 00:25:21,803 The idea that soviet influence had to be stopped 461 00:25:21,955 --> 00:25:23,730 Wherever it might manifest itself 462 00:25:25,401 --> 00:25:30,529 And it was a driving factor, certainly in 1953 in iran. 463 00:25:32,557 --> 00:25:35,483 - Iran has a constitutional monarchy, 464 00:25:35,578 --> 00:25:39,154 So you have the shah, the king, mohammad reza pahlavi, 465 00:25:39,248 --> 00:25:42,416 But you also have a prime minister, mohammad mosaddegh. 466 00:25:42,567 --> 00:25:45,644 So, mohammad mosaddegh was leading this campaign 467 00:25:45,737 --> 00:25:48,255 To nationalize iran's oil industry. 468 00:25:48,482 --> 00:25:51,833 - Before 1953, the british were in control 469 00:25:51,985 --> 00:25:54,243 Of iran's oil industry. 470 00:25:54,263 --> 00:25:56,597 They kept essentially all of its revenues. 471 00:25:58,100 --> 00:26:01,268 - But now, mosaddegh nationalizes the oil industry 472 00:26:01,495 --> 00:26:03,937 And he takes that away from great britain. 473 00:26:05,515 --> 00:26:09,000 - And later, he shuts down the british embassy 474 00:26:09,094 --> 00:26:10,861 And expels all the diplomats, 475 00:26:12,339 --> 00:26:15,190 Which gives the british less access to iran 476 00:26:15,284 --> 00:26:16,366 And to the government. 477 00:26:18,028 --> 00:26:19,936 - Britain's answer to this was to try 478 00:26:20,030 --> 00:26:22,180 To remove mosaddegh from power. 479 00:26:22,199 --> 00:26:25,775 And to do this, britain approached the united states 480 00:26:25,794 --> 00:26:26,960 With a proposal. 481 00:26:28,297 --> 00:26:30,613 - This whole plan was shrouded in secrecy. 482 00:26:30,633 --> 00:26:33,300 The channel of communication between great britain 483 00:26:33,527 --> 00:26:36,211 And the u.S. Came through the secretary of state, 484 00:26:36,305 --> 00:26:39,714 John dulles, and the cia director, allen dulles, 485 00:26:39,867 --> 00:26:43,292 His brother, they bring eisenhower a plan 486 00:26:43,312 --> 00:26:47,397 To basically overthrow the prime minister of iran. 487 00:26:48,967 --> 00:26:52,653 And eisenhower is a little skeptical at first. 488 00:26:53,656 --> 00:26:55,322 - And he needed to be convinced. 489 00:26:56,717 --> 00:26:59,234 And the dulles brothers used the argument 490 00:26:59,386 --> 00:27:03,071 That there's a risk iran will fall into the soviet orbit 491 00:27:03,223 --> 00:27:07,000 Because this mosaddegh guy may very well turn communist. 492 00:27:08,395 --> 00:27:13,006 And that triggered something for eisenhower 493 00:27:14,009 --> 00:27:15,676 And so in that moment, sitting across 494 00:27:15,903 --> 00:27:18,345 From the dulles brothers, he makes a decision 495 00:27:18,496 --> 00:27:21,072 That the u.S. Will attempt to overthrow 496 00:27:21,091 --> 00:27:22,766 The prime minister, mohammad mosaddegh. 497 00:27:27,189 --> 00:27:30,248 - The cold war context pushed united states over the edge 498 00:27:30,267 --> 00:27:32,859 In order to do something that not done before. 499 00:27:33,086 --> 00:27:35,437 This is the moment where the united states 500 00:27:35,589 --> 00:27:37,280 Loses its innocence. 501 00:27:39,276 --> 00:27:43,370 - The cia took the lead on carrying out this mission. 502 00:27:44,932 --> 00:27:47,874 It was assigned to the chief of the near east 503 00:27:48,101 --> 00:27:51,453 And africa division of the cia, kermit roosevelt. 504 00:27:51,547 --> 00:27:55,607 - My grandfather, he was theodore roosevelt's grandson 505 00:27:55,700 --> 00:27:57,718 And he was an intelligence officer at the cia. 506 00:27:59,112 --> 00:28:02,055 - Kermit roosevelt crosses over into iran 507 00:28:03,617 --> 00:28:06,727 And he was the guy in charge of figuring out 508 00:28:06,954 --> 00:28:09,896 How to actually, on the ground, carry out a coup. 509 00:28:11,549 --> 00:28:14,735 - What my grandfather did was to stir up unrest. 510 00:28:14,886 --> 00:28:18,221 So, he paid people to go out in the streets and fight 511 00:28:18,240 --> 00:28:21,483 To create a perception of unrest. 512 00:28:21,635 --> 00:28:24,319 - [asha] and he tells them, "I want you to be screaming, 513 00:28:24,471 --> 00:28:27,155 'we love mosaddegh, we love communism,'" 514 00:28:27,307 --> 00:28:30,066 So it's very clear who's responsible for 515 00:28:30,085 --> 00:28:31,585 All of this chaos. 516 00:28:32,829 --> 00:28:34,479 And so, now you have violent clashes taking place 517 00:28:34,498 --> 00:28:35,672 In the streets of tehran. 518 00:28:37,150 --> 00:28:39,509 - And that justified military intervention, 519 00:28:40,837 --> 00:28:42,929 So the army came in and took control. 520 00:28:44,674 --> 00:28:47,184 - Mosaddegh was out of power and the coup has succeeded. 521 00:28:51,440 --> 00:28:54,015 And now they had the shah who was much more friendly 522 00:28:54,109 --> 00:28:56,026 To the west in power. 523 00:28:57,929 --> 00:29:00,672 - Eisenhower sought covert action 524 00:29:00,690 --> 00:29:05,285 As an effort to avoid larger scale military conflict 525 00:29:05,512 --> 00:29:10,123 To fight the cold war in a way that would be constrained, 526 00:29:10,350 --> 00:29:12,793 But would produce the kinds of outcomes that he wanted. 527 00:29:15,522 --> 00:29:18,632 - After the coup, both great britain and the u.S. 528 00:29:18,859 --> 00:29:21,709 Profited from iran's oil and it really does 529 00:29:21,804 --> 00:29:24,620 Beg the question, what was the real motivation 530 00:29:24,640 --> 00:29:25,639 Of this coup? 531 00:29:26,958 --> 00:29:29,551 - I had the opportunity some years ago 532 00:29:29,703 --> 00:29:32,370 To talk to a descendant of one of the british operatives 533 00:29:32,463 --> 00:29:33,888 Who was involved and they said to me, 534 00:29:34,041 --> 00:29:35,890 "of course it was about the oil." 535 00:29:35,984 --> 00:29:38,634 "we just knew that if we mentioned communism, 536 00:29:38,728 --> 00:29:39,903 The americans would jump." 537 00:29:41,731 --> 00:29:44,157 - This covert action would come back 538 00:29:44,309 --> 00:29:47,977 To bite the united states decades later 539 00:29:47,996 --> 00:29:51,723 Because as the united states' involvement 540 00:29:51,741 --> 00:29:56,561 Began to be known, it created a lot of anti-u.S. Resentment 541 00:29:57,731 --> 00:30:03,326 And ultimately, this culminates in the iranian revolution 542 00:30:03,345 --> 00:30:07,639 In 1979 and the takeover of the u.S. Embassy. 543 00:30:09,076 --> 00:30:13,078 We learn the longterm costs of interfering 544 00:30:13,171 --> 00:30:15,763 In the affairs of other countries 545 00:30:15,858 --> 00:30:18,933 And how they impact our own national interests 546 00:30:19,086 --> 00:30:23,029 In the long run, even if they provide a short term gain. 547 00:30:23,181 --> 00:30:24,948 (upbeat music) 548 00:30:29,371 --> 00:30:30,428 - [bill clinton] after world war ii, america has become 549 00:30:30,521 --> 00:30:33,281 A colossus on the world stage. 550 00:30:33,433 --> 00:30:36,859 The iran coup of 1953 was just the first 551 00:30:36,879 --> 00:30:39,454 Of a wave of american backed interventions 552 00:30:39,606 --> 00:30:42,698 In nations from guatemala to indonesia. 553 00:30:42,718 --> 00:30:47,203 Our power to influence global events seems limitless, 554 00:30:47,222 --> 00:30:49,222 But a small nation in southeast asia 555 00:30:49,374 --> 00:30:52,475 Is about to demonstrate that limits do exist. 556 00:30:54,379 --> 00:30:57,898 Under president lyndon johnson, the vietnam war, 557 00:30:58,125 --> 00:30:59,624 Which had escalated over the course 558 00:30:59,717 --> 00:31:03,236 Of three administrations, would consume 559 00:31:03,388 --> 00:31:06,072 And ultimately end his own presidency. 560 00:31:10,245 --> 00:31:12,746 (film reeling) 561 00:31:18,161 --> 00:31:20,069 - Lyndon b. Johnson was president kennedy's 562 00:31:20,088 --> 00:31:22,147 Vice president 563 00:31:22,240 --> 00:31:24,649 And he assumes the presidency following 564 00:31:24,668 --> 00:31:26,343 Kennedy's assassination 565 00:31:28,488 --> 00:31:30,321 And along with that, 566 00:31:30,340 --> 00:31:32,265 Inherits the vietnam war. 567 00:31:34,269 --> 00:31:36,161 - The u.S. Is in vietnam 568 00:31:36,179 --> 00:31:37,771 To support south vietnam, 569 00:31:37,998 --> 00:31:40,682 Which is non-communist, versus north vietnam 570 00:31:40,776 --> 00:31:44,027 Under ho chi minh and the viet cong, which is communist. 571 00:31:45,781 --> 00:31:47,948 - Lbj took it for granted that it was very important 572 00:31:48,175 --> 00:31:50,951 For the united states to resist communist expansion 573 00:31:51,178 --> 00:31:53,678 Wherever a communist expansion threatened. 574 00:31:53,697 --> 00:31:56,790 So, when lbj takes office, there were 575 00:31:56,941 --> 00:32:00,518 About 21,000 americans in south vietnam, 576 00:32:00,611 --> 00:32:04,189 But they were also called advisors, 577 00:32:04,282 --> 00:32:06,883 They were not combat forces, per say. 578 00:32:08,619 --> 00:32:12,380 Lbj makes the decision to cross that all important line 579 00:32:12,474 --> 00:32:16,884 Between an advisory role and a direct combat role. 580 00:32:17,037 --> 00:32:18,627 - The thought is that this is a conflict 581 00:32:18,647 --> 00:32:20,722 That can be won quickly. 582 00:32:20,816 --> 00:32:23,799 - [mark] so, he authorizes the first combat forces 583 00:32:23,819 --> 00:32:25,402 To be sent into south vietnam. 584 00:32:29,992 --> 00:32:33,660 - We built our troop strength from 50,000 to 100,000 585 00:32:33,887 --> 00:32:35,311 To 450,000. 586 00:32:35,330 --> 00:32:37,222 We had a lot of troops out there 587 00:32:37,315 --> 00:32:39,332 Who were dropping a lot of napalm, 588 00:32:39,484 --> 00:32:42,577 But we couldn't quite finish the fight. 589 00:32:42,729 --> 00:32:45,839 - And president johnson really didn't want to demonstrate 590 00:32:45,990 --> 00:32:48,133 That he was not soft on communism. 591 00:32:49,678 --> 00:32:53,404 He simply did not want to be the first president 592 00:32:53,498 --> 00:32:56,099 In u.S. History to lose a war. 593 00:32:57,744 --> 00:33:00,311 - I have asked the commanding general 594 00:33:02,082 --> 00:33:05,692 What more he needs to meet this mounting aggression 595 00:33:06,753 --> 00:33:09,029 And we will meet his needs. 596 00:33:10,607 --> 00:33:14,200 We will stand in vietnam. 597 00:33:15,929 --> 00:33:18,538 - So, what lbj decided to do in that context 598 00:33:18,765 --> 00:33:20,856 Was really to double down on the war 599 00:33:20,876 --> 00:33:24,102 And to try to convince americans 600 00:33:24,195 --> 00:33:26,028 That, look, things are going well, 601 00:33:26,048 --> 00:33:29,198 Whereas, in fact, things have come badly off the rails. 602 00:33:29,217 --> 00:33:31,943 - Lyndon johnson kept saying that there was light 603 00:33:32,036 --> 00:33:34,554 At the end of the tunnel in vietnam, 604 00:33:37,208 --> 00:33:40,468 But low and behold, in January of '68, 605 00:33:40,562 --> 00:33:45,356 We had the tet offensive and it belied johnson's optimism. 606 00:33:47,310 --> 00:33:54,574 - The communists struck and they overran many, many places, 607 00:33:55,151 --> 00:33:57,327 Including the american embassy. 608 00:34:03,810 --> 00:34:06,419 And suddenly, a war, which looked like 609 00:34:06,571 --> 00:34:10,215 It was winding down because of heavy american presence 610 00:34:11,651 --> 00:34:12,717 Turned upside down. 611 00:34:14,262 --> 00:34:16,579 (guns firing) 612 00:34:16,598 --> 00:34:19,933 - There was a steady diet of bad news 613 00:34:20,084 --> 00:34:23,085 Coming out of vietnam and you know why? 614 00:34:23,105 --> 00:34:24,587 It was bad news. 615 00:34:24,606 --> 00:34:27,607 (upbeat music) 616 00:34:27,834 --> 00:34:30,759 For the north vietnamese, it was a big success 617 00:34:30,779 --> 00:34:33,530 Because it showed the vulnerability of the americans. 618 00:34:37,452 --> 00:34:41,204 - Overnight, the emotions in the united states flipped. 619 00:34:42,515 --> 00:34:45,458 Suddenly, boom, after tet it was like, 620 00:34:45,610 --> 00:34:47,185 What the heck are you doing over there? 621 00:34:47,203 --> 00:34:48,870 What's the point of this? 622 00:34:49,022 --> 00:34:51,189 - But the biggest casualty of tet 623 00:34:51,207 --> 00:34:52,757 Will be lyndon johnson himself. 624 00:34:53,969 --> 00:34:55,618 The lowest point really comes 625 00:34:55,637 --> 00:34:58,379 When walter cronkite from cbs news 626 00:34:58,531 --> 00:35:01,957 Travels to vietnam to see firsthand 627 00:35:01,977 --> 00:35:04,060 What's happening on the battlefield. 628 00:35:06,815 --> 00:35:09,390 - [christian] president johnson loved to watch tv. 629 00:35:09,542 --> 00:35:13,636 He had in his office several big tv sets 630 00:35:13,655 --> 00:35:16,489 And would watch all three networks at the same time. 631 00:35:16,716 --> 00:35:20,234 - The nature of the vietnamese war has changed. 632 00:35:20,328 --> 00:35:23,070 - So, walter cronkite, the most trusted man in america, 633 00:35:23,165 --> 00:35:26,057 He said that the united states is bogged down 634 00:35:26,075 --> 00:35:28,001 In a hopeless quagmire. 635 00:35:28,152 --> 00:35:30,228 - Well, it seems now, more certain than ever, 636 00:35:30,321 --> 00:35:32,397 That the bloody experience of vietnam 637 00:35:32,415 --> 00:35:35,008 Is to end in a stalemate. 638 00:35:35,159 --> 00:35:38,845 - And johnson apparently turned to an aide 639 00:35:38,996 --> 00:35:41,906 And he said, "if I've lost cronkite, 640 00:35:41,999 --> 00:35:43,975 I've lost middle america." 641 00:35:46,413 --> 00:35:48,837 - Cronkite delivers what is, in essence, 642 00:35:48,857 --> 00:35:52,192 The first on-screen editorial in american history. 643 00:35:53,695 --> 00:35:56,196 It is the death knell for the johnson administration. 644 00:35:57,924 --> 00:36:02,368 - I shall not seek and I will not accept 645 00:36:03,872 --> 00:36:06,447 The nomination of my party for another term 646 00:36:06,541 --> 00:36:07,332 As your president. 647 00:36:11,104 --> 00:36:13,213 - [mark] very few people saw this coming. 648 00:36:16,200 --> 00:36:19,201 This was a man almost made for politics 649 00:36:19,221 --> 00:36:21,295 At the highest levels. 650 00:36:21,389 --> 00:36:24,891 It was unimaginable that someone who had pursued 651 00:36:25,042 --> 00:36:27,785 The highest office with such energy and vigor 652 00:36:27,804 --> 00:36:28,853 Would give it up. 653 00:36:30,565 --> 00:36:32,640 - This is definitely a turning point in american history 654 00:36:32,734 --> 00:36:37,070 That demonstrates the limits of american power. 655 00:36:37,297 --> 00:36:41,390 American political power, american military power 656 00:36:41,409 --> 00:36:43,660 And american international capital. 657 00:36:50,234 --> 00:36:51,918 - [bill clinton] amid our cold war interventions 658 00:36:52,069 --> 00:36:55,237 And military operations, we were also asking ourselves 659 00:36:55,257 --> 00:36:58,758 How we could achieve a balance between power and principle. 660 00:36:58,909 --> 00:37:02,987 Could we use soft power and non-military means 661 00:37:03,006 --> 00:37:04,989 To protect and project our interests 662 00:37:05,008 --> 00:37:06,915 Beyond our own borders? 663 00:37:06,935 --> 00:37:09,918 President john kennedy was looking for unconventional ways 664 00:37:09,938 --> 00:37:11,920 To advance american interests in the world 665 00:37:12,015 --> 00:37:17,402 When he came up with a bold idea that still lives today. 666 00:37:23,285 --> 00:37:25,785 (film reeling) 667 00:37:30,941 --> 00:37:35,019 - In 1961, john f. Kennedy represents the hopes 668 00:37:35,112 --> 00:37:36,537 For the future of the united states, 669 00:37:36,631 --> 00:37:38,781 Something that he capitalizes on 670 00:37:38,875 --> 00:37:40,691 In his first inaugural address. 671 00:37:40,785 --> 00:37:44,637 - The torch has been passed to a new generation 672 00:37:44,789 --> 00:37:49,976 Of americans, born in this century, tempered by war. 673 00:37:53,297 --> 00:37:55,481 - There was this real emphasis on youthful energy. 674 00:37:55,708 --> 00:37:59,226 Partly, I think this was the way to blunt criticism 675 00:37:59,321 --> 00:38:02,046 That he was, in fact, too young to be the president. 676 00:38:02,139 --> 00:38:05,325 Another reason why kennedy, I think, 677 00:38:05,552 --> 00:38:09,220 Was drawn to this rhetoric of youth and vigor 678 00:38:09,238 --> 00:38:12,832 Had to with new nations that were literally 679 00:38:13,059 --> 00:38:15,668 Shaking off european colonialism. 680 00:38:15,895 --> 00:38:18,487 There was a sense in which the world was changing 681 00:38:18,506 --> 00:38:21,065 In the direction of those young, dynamic, 682 00:38:21,084 --> 00:38:25,069 Energetic societies and kennedy wanted to convey the message 683 00:38:25,088 --> 00:38:27,588 That the united states had something to offer 684 00:38:27,740 --> 00:38:28,848 To those societies. 685 00:38:31,244 --> 00:38:35,170 - Kennedy came to the idea that you could do better 686 00:38:35,264 --> 00:38:38,858 In the cold war by making americans into the good guys 687 00:38:39,085 --> 00:38:41,586 By using soft power. 688 00:38:41,679 --> 00:38:45,031 Soft power's a way to win over hearts and minds 689 00:38:45,258 --> 00:38:49,869 To create a sturdy alliance based on economic incentives 690 00:38:50,947 --> 00:38:53,781 And cultural imperatives. 691 00:38:53,875 --> 00:38:57,618 Soft power's an essential part of the battle 692 00:38:57,770 --> 00:39:00,713 Between the soviet union and the united states 693 00:39:00,865 --> 00:39:03,549 To attract countries to your side. 694 00:39:09,282 --> 00:39:11,724 - I have today signed an executive order 695 00:39:11,876 --> 00:39:14,301 Providing for the establishment of a peace corps 696 00:39:14,454 --> 00:39:16,378 On a temporary pilot basis. 697 00:39:16,398 --> 00:39:19,899 It is our hope to have between 500 to 1,000 people 698 00:39:20,126 --> 00:39:21,734 In the field by the end of this year. 699 00:39:23,796 --> 00:39:26,814 - [douglas] he created a peace corps to send young americans 700 00:39:26,908 --> 00:39:28,557 To new countries that 701 00:39:28,576 --> 00:39:29,558 Were just becoming 702 00:39:29,652 --> 00:39:31,244 Part of the united nations. 703 00:39:32,655 --> 00:39:35,973 - In that first year, 52 americans volunteered 704 00:39:36,066 --> 00:39:37,158 For the peace corps and they were sent 705 00:39:37,252 --> 00:39:38,918 To ghana in west africa. 706 00:39:39,145 --> 00:39:40,478 - [peace corps spokesman] here in africa, 707 00:39:40,496 --> 00:39:42,255 Like a lot of places around the world, 708 00:39:42,406 --> 00:39:44,757 The peace corps is alive and well. 709 00:39:44,984 --> 00:39:48,819 - The peace corps mission was to help other nations 710 00:39:48,913 --> 00:39:51,597 Deal with some very basic fundamental problems, 711 00:39:51,824 --> 00:39:54,917 Whether it be agriculture or water sanitation 712 00:39:54,936 --> 00:39:58,604 Or sewage removal or just basic education. 713 00:40:00,591 --> 00:40:03,943 - This was part of how to expand american dynamism 714 00:40:04,170 --> 00:40:07,763 Around the world in a way that wasn't about nuclear bombs 715 00:40:07,857 --> 00:40:09,115 And militarism. 716 00:40:10,785 --> 00:40:12,843 - The people of this country are anxious to see 717 00:40:12,862 --> 00:40:13,786 A world in peace. 718 00:40:15,198 --> 00:40:16,622 Young people in this country are anxious 719 00:40:16,849 --> 00:40:19,792 To hold out their hand to people in other worlds. 720 00:40:20,628 --> 00:40:22,687 - [douglas] and the fact of the matter is it worked. 721 00:40:22,780 --> 00:40:24,964 The peace corp became very popular. 722 00:40:26,634 --> 00:40:29,284 - And over the next few decades, 723 00:40:29,378 --> 00:40:32,029 Some quarter of a million young people 724 00:40:32,048 --> 00:40:33,973 Would volunteer for the peace corps 725 00:40:34,124 --> 00:40:36,767 And they would be sent to 140 different countries. 726 00:40:38,705 --> 00:40:41,038 - [douglas] kennedy had us all leaning forward, 727 00:40:41,131 --> 00:40:43,274 Thinking we could make the world a better place. 728 00:40:47,714 --> 00:40:49,897 - More than 60 years after president kennedy 729 00:40:50,049 --> 00:40:53,734 Created the peace corps, it remains a shining embodiment 730 00:40:53,886 --> 00:40:56,237 Of american ideals around the world 731 00:40:56,331 --> 00:40:59,573 And I was proud to expand it when I was president. 732 00:40:59,726 --> 00:41:01,834 I believed america's security and prosperity 733 00:41:02,061 --> 00:41:05,505 Could best be advanced in a world with more friends 734 00:41:05,732 --> 00:41:08,508 And fewer enemies, through strong alliances 735 00:41:08,659 --> 00:41:11,677 Rooted in respect and cooperation. 736 00:41:11,904 --> 00:41:15,163 Whether I was right or not, one thing is certain, 737 00:41:15,258 --> 00:41:18,592 Our world is only going to keep becoming more connected. 738 00:41:18,686 --> 00:41:23,097 Everyday, what happens to us is at least partly determined 739 00:41:23,249 --> 00:41:26,692 By what happens to other people somewhere else. 740 00:41:26,919 --> 00:41:29,754 So, like it or not, we can't escape each other. 741 00:41:29,847 --> 00:41:31,939 The vast oceans that allowed presidents 742 00:41:32,091 --> 00:41:35,183 Throughout our history to choose isolationism 743 00:41:35,278 --> 00:41:37,444 Offer a little protection today 744 00:41:37,597 --> 00:41:41,023 Against cyber warfare, global market crashes, 745 00:41:41,117 --> 00:41:43,876 Pandemics or climate change. 746 00:41:44,103 --> 00:41:46,546 So, the real question that every future president 747 00:41:46,773 --> 00:41:49,790 Will have to answer is not whether we will engage 748 00:41:49,942 --> 00:41:53,678 With the world, it's how we will engage with the world.