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Harry S. Truman. Potsdam Declaration signed ("Harry S. Truman") as President. ...
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Sold on May 7, 2022 for:
$42,500.00
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Description
Harry S. Truman. Potsdam Declaration signed ("Harry S. Truman") as President. 3 pages on 2 leaves, (8.25 x 11 inches), Potsdam, July 26, 1945. 0.75-inch closed tear to fold of first sheet. 3-inch closed tear to fold of second sheet partially repaired. A few minor chips to edges.Incredible unique copy of the Potsdam Declaration signed by Harry S. Truman calling for the unconditional surrender of Japan.
"Following our terms, we will not deviate from them. There are no alternatives. We shall brook no delay."
Period fair typed copy of the Potsdam Declaration. Boldly signed on the final page by President Harry Truman ("Harry S. Truman"), with the additional signatures of Prime Minister Winston Churchill ("Churchill") and China's Nationalist leader, Chiang Kai Shek ("Chiang Kai Shek"), added in Truman's hand, upon whose authority he was authorized to sign.
The three men met in July 1945 to turn their nations' attention to "strike the final blows upon Japan." With peace secured in Europe, they reminded the Japanese of the consequences of continuing to fight. The Potsdam Conference laid out the Allies' terms: the overthrow of the Japanese government, occupation of its territory, limiting Japan only to its main islands, disarmament, and the imposition of "stern justice" for its war criminals. It concludes with the stern ultimatum "We call upon the Government of Japan to proclaim now the unconditional surrender of all the Japanese armed forces, and to provide proper and adequate assurances of their good faith in such action. The alternative for Japan is prompt and utter destruction." The Japanese generals did not accept the terms and the war continued until the dropping of the atomic bombs in August 1945.
A truly important and historic document and one of the few known copies of the complete text to be signed by Truman.
Accompanied by an LOA from PSA/DNA and a black and white photograph of Harry Truman, Winston Churchill, and Chiang Kai Shek.
Auction Info
2022 May 7 Treasures from the Melvin "Pete" Mark, Jr. Collection Signature® Auction #6256 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
May, 2022
7th
Saturday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 5
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
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