Remarkable 11.5 x 15.25 print featuring a famous quote by Abraham Lincoln, signed and inscribed in the lower border in fountain pen by President Harry S. Truman. The printed quote, which stands amongst Lincoln's most famous words and was recited by Warren G. Harding during his address at the dedication of the Lincoln Memorial, reads: "If I were to try to read, much less answer, all the attacks made on me, this shop might as well be closed for any other business. I do the very best I know how—the very best I can; and I mean to keep doing so until the end. If the end brings me out all right, what's said against me won't amount to anything. If the end brings me out wrong, ten angels swearing I was right would make no difference."
President Truman inscribes and signs the print below to his Solicitor General, in full: "To Hon. Philip B. Perlman, Solicitor General:—Never was anything more truly said. Washington, Jefferson, Jackson, Grover Cleveland, Wilson, Franklin Roosevelt and myself have all suffered from a hostile and vicious press. It has taken a century and more to get the truth about Jefferson & Jackson. Lincoln and Grover Cleveland were even more viciously attacked but the truth prevailed just as Honest Abe said it would. Harry Truman, White House, July 21, 1949." In very good to fine condition, with light toning and dampstaining affecting much of the handwriting, but not readability.
President Harry S. Truman had a complex and often contentious relationship with the press throughout his presidency. Known for his straightforward demeanor and fiery temper, Truman frequently clashed with journalists who criticized his policies or questioned his decisions. Still, he recognized the importance of maintaining a working relationship with the press and in 1945 proposed a major West Wing expansion would have included a studio and auditorium for press briefings—a plan that lacked support from Congress, and was ultimately not carried out. Truman's candid and unfiltered communication style endeared him to some members of the press while alienating others, but his willingness to engage helped to shape the modern presidency's complex relationship with the media. A remarkable presidential piece, connecting Truman to a number of his predecessors in the nation's executive office.
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