The war between communism and democracy began even before the second world war ended. Less than a year after Germany’s official surrendered, Greece descended into a civil war between the governmental forces backed largely by Britain and the communist-backed (and misleadingly named) Greek Democratic Army. Britain supported the government’s side only briefly: WW II left the country devastated, financially as well as physically. In its place stepped up Truman, offering aid first to Greek government loyalists, and then expanding to any country fighting the communists.

On this day, March 12, in 1947, Truman stepped before joint session of Congress to ask for money for aid to Greece and Turkey, and to outline the elements of what would become know as the Truman Doctrine.

“Greece must have assistance if it is to become a self-supporting and self-respecting democracy.” Truman said in his address, as must Turkey, and the United States was obligated to help. “One of the primary objectives of the foreign policy of the United States is the creation of conditions in which we and other nations will be able to work out a way of life free from coercion.”