ALS as president signed “HST,” one page, 5 x 8, White House letterhead, no date but presumably circa 1948. Letter to Dr. John Roy Steelman, an economics professor and labor specialist who served as Truman’s assistant from 1945 to 1952. In full: “I sent Lincoln to see Lovett & Draper. I talked to both of them. Look this over, then talk to Lovett & Draper & tell me your conclusions. I don’t want German Cartels back as you know.” Includes the original White House transmittal envelope, filled out in Truman’s hand, “Top Secret. To: Dr. John Steelman, From: The President.” Also includes a larger White House envelope, addressed in Truman’s hand, “Urgent. To: Dr. John Steelman, From: The President.” In fine condition, with scattered toning to the larger envelope. Accompanied by three carbon copies of a 1948 memo from Steelman to Truman regarding a situation in North China. The decartelization of German industry was a key goal in rebuilding the nation following World War II, a policy agreed upon during the Potsdam Conference in 1945. The purpose was twofold—breaking up giant monopolies and introducing free markets would help to prevent the financial distress that Germany had experienced in the years leading up to the war, and the democratization of business would introduce those ideals to a previously totalitarian state. Although little had been done by 1948, Truman continued to pledge progress in these areas. A fascinating piece of insider White House history. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA.
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