Death of A Statesman

[DKrol]

King George VI Abdicates British Throne

The Daily Mail, Special Edition - November 3, 1946

    The reign of King George VI has come to a close, atleast in England. After ruling through exile for 5 years, King George VI formally announced his abdication from the Court of St. James.  George VI announced that he has declared Canada an independent Kingdom, to be reigned directly from Quebec, by himself. He is now expected to be known as King George VI & I. A national referendum has been announced to approve this decision. Speaking to the world, George said that, over the last five years, he has “become more Canadian than British”. Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark, a nephew of George VI, has been offered the throne of the British Isles by the Parliament. Prince Philip, already in Scotland following his exile from Greece, is expected to accept the duty and take the name Philip II. There is controversy, however, because there is wide popular support (within the Isles) for Princess Margaret (daughter of King George VI) to assume the throne, even though her father's abdication removes her from the line of succession, as well as some support for Edward VIII (the brother of King George VI, former King, and Duke of Windsor) to reclaim the throne, 10 years after his 1936 abdication.

Edward VIII Arrives in London

The Telegraph, Evening Edition - November 5, 1946

    The Duke of Windsor, the former King Edward VII, has arrived in London to claim the throne of St. James. Following the abdication of King George VI the throne as been vacant, with numerous claimants. The Parliament-approved monarch, Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark, is making the journey from Scotland to London for his coronation. The Duke of Windsor arrived in London this afternoon, from Paris, and is staking his claim to the throne as the only blood relative of King George still in the British Isles. The public appears to be favoring Edward, a poll from the BBC shows that 56% of Britons would rather have Edward re-assume the throne, over 36% that favor the foreign-born Philip, with 5% favoring Princess Margaret, and 3% unsure.

Willkie Proclaims Neutrality in British Crisis

Washington Post, Morning Edition - November 11, 1946

    “We must allow the British to govern themselves” said President Wendell Willkie in his weekly radio address. The main topic of the speech was the British Succession crisis. Mr. Willkie has formed a close bond with Canadian King George VI & I and has met with him numerous times, during the Nazi War. Mr. Willkie made it plain and simple, he and his government would not take a side in the debate over who should assume the British throne. “I would not welcome foreign intervention [with regards to a Presidential election], so I will grant the British the same respect” Secretary of State Tom Connally said, in a press conference late last night.

[DKrol]

Supporters Clash in England

The Telegraph, Evening Edition - December 19, 1946

    Nearly a month into it, the British Succession Crisis is no closer to being resolved. Supporters of Prince Philip and the Duke of Windsor clashed today, in London, as Philip prepares for his January 15 Coronation. Supports of both men have been protesting outside the Parliament Building and today came to blows, as tensions peaked. Governor-General Anthony Eden ordered the military to break up the violence and disperse the protests but his ability to control the army is weak and few soldiers followed his orders. Some soldiers were seen joining the protesters on both sides. The Duke of Windsor spoke to his supporters via radio this morning, thanking them for their support for the “one true, loyal, British King”. The Duke’s supporters have been keen on the fact that Philip is not British and “Briton must be ruled by a Brit”.

New Congress Takes Office

Washington Post, Special Edition - January 3, 1947

    The newly elected, 80th Congress took their seats this morning. In the Senate, this puts the balance of power at 43 (-10) seats for the Democrats, 52 (+12) for the Republicans, 1 (-1)  for the Progressives, and none (-1) for the Farmer-Labor Party. In the map above, dark red indicates a Democratic hold, dark blue indicates a Republican hold, and light blue indicates a Republican pick up. Senator Wallace H. White, Jr., a Republican of Maine, will serve as Majority Leader and Senator Harry S. Truman, a Democrat of Missouri, will serve as Minority Leader. In the House of Representatives,  the Republicans now hold 239 (+39), the Democrats hold 164 seats (-35), the Progressives 20 (-2), and the Farmer-Labor 14(-2). Representative Leslie C. Arends, a Republican of Illinois, will continue to serve as the Speaker of the House for this Congress.

Referendum Backs George

The Daily Mail, Morning Edition - January 13, 1947

    The polls are in and King George VI & I has received the consent of the governed, announced the office of Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King. Following his decision to abdicate the British throne and become the King of Canada, a referendum was held to determine the public support for King George VI & I. Reports from the Prime Minister’s Office say that 62% of Canadians vote “Yes” on the motion, with 33% voting “No”, and 5% voting for both or invalidating their ballots in some other way. The King thanked his people for their “unwavering support and love”.

[DKrol]

Civil War in England

New York Times, Evening Edition - January 15, 1947

    Our former mother country is being split in two. Today, Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark was supposed to be installed as the new King of the United Kingdom at the Westminster Abbey. However, supporters of the Duke of Windsor (the former King Edward VII) interrupted the ceremony, stormed the Abbey, and disrupted the event. Prince Philip was ushered out of the Abbey and crowned in a private ceremony at Buckingham Palace by the Greek Orthodox Bishop Germanos (Strenopoulos). Philip has not converted to the Anglican Church, announcing that he would not convert. He stated that he believes in the freedom of religion and that that right includes himself. Hours later, the Duke of Windsor was crowned, at 10 Downing Street, by Geoffrey Fisher, the Anglican Archbishop of Canterbury. This is the first time in many years that there are two men competing for the crown.

First Age of Prosperity Legislation Passed

Washington Post, Evening Edition - March 12, 1947

    After two years of fighting with the Democratic Senate, President Wendell Willkie’s “Age of Prosperity” is beginning to take shape. The Senate passed the “Tennessee Valley Energy Act” 53-43 yesterday, and the House passed it 245-192 this morning. Mr. Willkie signed the bill at noontime. The law opens up the Tennessee Valley Authority to bids from private companies seeking to purchase the energy corporation. This is the third point of Mr. Willkie’s 5 Point Plan for a New Age of Prosperity.

Atomic Bomb Dropped on Kyoto

Washington Post, Special Edition - June 20, 1947

    The war in Japan may be over. Secretary of War Dwight D. Eisenhower called a press conference from within the War Department Headquarters to announce “a major development” in the Invasion of Japan. “At 7:15 AM, local time, the United States Army dropped an atomic bomb on the city of Kyoto, Japan, following orders by myself and President [Wendell] Willkie.” Mr. Eisenhower said solemnly “The bomb had a uranium core and was the most powerful and destructive force ever created by man. We expect that most of the city of Kyoto has been destroyed and nearly 50,000 Japanese have been killed.” Mr. Eisenhower went to explain that he and Mr. Willkie determined that the atom bomb “was the only course of action to bring an end [to the war in Japan] while saving hundreds of thousands of American boys their lives”.

[DKrol]

Vice President Martin Killed in Car Crash

Washington Post, Special Edition - June 22, 1947

    The nation has been waiting with baited breath for news from the White House regarding the atomic bombing of Kyoto. News came from the White house this afternoon, but not regarding Japan. Vice President Joseph W. Martin, Jr. has died, according to a White House Spokesman. Mr. Martin was being driven from the Vice President’s Residence to the White House when a tire ruptured on the car, sending it spinning out of control into traffic. The Vice President was already dead when medical professionals arrived on the scene. President Wendell Willkie said that he was “deeply sorry” for the loss of his “closest advisor and friend”. Mr. Martin will lie in state in the Capitol for 11 days.

Emperor Hirohito Surrenders to Coalition

New York Times, Special Edition - June 25, 1947

    In a rare radio address, Japanese Emperor Hirohito called for the Japanese to lay down their arms. The Emperor cited the “grave losses” of the bombing of Kyoto as one of the factors in his decision to surrender. “We have lost our way and our judgement has become clouded” said the Emperor. He asked Prime Minister Hideki Tojo for his resignation and announced that he would be traveling to San Diego, California, in order to discuss a peace treaty. President Wendell Willkie hailed this as “the beginning of a new age” of peace and diplomacy.

Treaty of San Diego Signed

San Francisco Chronicle, Evening Edition - July 1, 1947

    After 5 days of negotiations, the United States is at peace for the first time since 1941. Japanese Emperor Hirohito, Canadian King George VI &I, French President Charles de Gaulle,  and President Wendell Willkie signed the Treaty of San Diego this morning, officially ending the war in the Pacific. Per the treaty, heavy economic sanctions are to be imposed against Japan, it’s military is to be dismantled, and fees are to be paid to Canada, the United States, and France by Japan. Some have attacked the United States for not inviting a British representative to the negotiations.

[DKrol]

It's been a while since there's been some reader feedback. Any comments on my recreation of history?

[DKrol]

Philip Recognizes Edward VII

New York Times, Evening Edition - August 16, 1947

    After just under a year of fighting and violence the British Succession Crisis has ended. Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark, the man chosen by Parliament to assume the throne, met with the Duke of Windsor, the popular-backed claimant, and gave an oath of alligiance to the Duke. Philip spoke at a press conference shortly after, saying “I now recognize that it is not in the best interests of the nation to prolong this feud. His Highness the Duke is the true and only King of the United Kingdom and to him I pledge my loyalty”. A spokesman for the Duke said that Prince Philip would be gifted with a peerage, the Dukedom of Edinburgh, and treated as a “valued member” of British society by the new King. The Duke’s coronation is planned for February 5, 1948.

Congress Passes 22nd Amendment

Washington Post, Morning Edition - September 14, 1947

    Late last night Congress passed the first Constitutional Amendment since the 21st in 1933. This amendment allow the President to fill vacancies in the Vice Presidency, as well as clarify that when the President dies or is removed from the Vice President becomes the President, rather than an acting President, and creates a way for the President to temporarily dispense power to the Vice President (for cases such as a surgery, illness, or tragedy). The amendment still needs to be ratified by 36 states but is expected to be ratified before the 1948 election.

President Willkie Launches Re-election

Washington Post, Morning Edition - January 2, 1948

    Cries of “Four More Years” could be heart from the audience today as President Wendell Willkie announced he would be seeking a second term as President. At a rally held in Denver, Colorado Mr. Willkie made his plea for a four more years on the job. “We’ve begun great work with the Age of Prosperity legislation, but our movement is not over with,” said Mr. Willkie. He also spent some time campaigning in favor of the 22nd Amendment. This stop is the first of several in Mr. Willkie’s swing through the western states on the first leg of his re-election campaign. Some Democrats have begun whispering about challenging Mr. Willkie, especially the 1944 Vice Presidential nominee, Senator Harry S. Truman of Missouri.

[H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY]

I enjoy it. Would King Edward be Edward VII and VIII?

[DKrol]

I enjoy it. Would King Edward be Edward VII and VIII?

He could be, if he so wished, but he's going to stay as Edward VII.

[H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY]

I enjoy it. Would King Edward be Edward VII and VIII?

He could be, if he so wished, but he's going to stay as Edward VII.

Noted.

[Sec. of State Superique]

Very nice but it's a shame that George renounced his throne...

[DKrol]

Alaska Votes Against Statehood

Washington Post, Evening Edition - March 21, 1948

    The people of Alaska have spoken through their ballots. Today, when voters went to the polls for various local elections, they also cast votes on a ballot question that asked “Do you feel that Alaska should be admitted as a state to the Union?”. Territorial Governor Ernest Gruening, a Democrat, campaigned heavily for this movement but there was little support from Washington on this. President Wendell Willkie came out against the question, saying that “the Alaskan people are not ready for statehood, nor is the United States” ready to govern Alaska as a state. The final numbers were 54% opposed, 41% in favor, and 5% of ballots were declared invalid for one reason or another.

Crisis at Blair House

Washington Post, Special Edition - June 2, 1948

    Scary news is flowing out from Blair House, where President and Mrs. Wendell Willkie have been staying during White House renovations. According to the Secret Service, three Puerto Rican nationals stormed the building, killing two Secret Service Agents before being subdue. Mr. Willkie was walking past the entryway when the assault happened, putting him the direct path of the nationals. He was not hurt, said a spokesman, but was “startled and rattled” by the incident. Mrs. Willkie was not home at the time.

Willkie Won’t Attend Convention

Washington Post, Afternoon Edition - June 10, 1948

    A White House spokesman announce today that President Wendell Willkie won’t be attending the Republican Party Convention this year. Being held from the 21st to the 25th in Philadelphia, Mr. Willkie is expected to be the only serious candidate for President among the Republicans. The President “does not feel that he should leave his business in Washington” for the Convention. This is keeping in line with previous Presidents. Neither John Nance Garner nor Joseph P. Kennedy, Sr. attended the Conventions following their election to office.

[DKrol]

Willikie Nominated in Philadelphia

The Philadelphia Inquirer, Evening Edition - June 21, 1948

    President Wendell Willkie was renominated this evening in Philadelphia. On the first day of the Convention, all delegates save for 4 cast their ballots in favor of Mr. Willkie for a second term. Michigan Senator and Senate President Pro Tempore Arthur H. Vandenberg, a friend of Mr. Willkie, accepted the nomination of Mr. Willkie’s behalf, as well as gave a passionate speech. Mr. Vandenberg’s speech advocated for the completion of the Age of Prosperity and a “new age of foreign policy”. The platform of the party was also voted on. Some notable planks include official opposition to communism and poll taxes, as well as the advocation for a Jewish state to be created in Palestine and an international body be formed “to mediate and settle international conflicts”.

First Round of Vice Presidential Balloting

The Philadelphia Inquirer, Evening Edition - June 22, 1948

    All eyes have been on the Vice Presidential balloting at the GOP Convention, with President Wendell Willkie’s renomination secured. The results of the first round were as follows: Secretary of War Dwight D. Eisenhower, 416; Governor Earl Warren, 384; University of Pennsylvania President Harold Stassen, 136; Senator Robert A. Taft, 135; Senator John W. Bricker, 23. It is clear that Mr. Eisenhower is the strongest candidate, in the eyes of most of the delegates, but it is unclear, to other delegates, whether Mr. Eisenhower is ready to assume the Presidency should Mr. Willkie die. There was a push towards the end of the round for Mr. Warren of California, who is seen as a tested politician.

Second Round of Vice Presidential Balloting

The Philadelphia Inquirer, Evening Edition - June 23, 1948

   The Republicans now have a Vice Presidential nominee. The results of the second round of voting were as follows: Governor Earl Warren, 563; Secretary of War Dwight D. Eisenhower, 460; University of Pennsylvania President Harold Stassen, 71. Mr. Warren, the progressive California Governor, accepted the nomination shortly after the balloting ended. A car picked Mr. Warren up at the convention and brought him to the White House to meet with President Wendell Willkie.

[DKrol]

Willkie Signs Eisenhower Plan

The Washington Post, Evening Edition - June 26, 1948

     Days after receiving the Republican Party’s nomination for a second term, President Wendell Willkie made a major move in foreign policy. This afternoon Mr. Willkie signed “The Eisenhower Plan”, also known as the European Recovery Plan, into law. The plan had bipartisan support in Congress and was championed by Secretary of War Dwight D. Eisenhower. The ERP is a four year plan for the rebuilding of Europe and the stopping of the spread of Soviet-esque Communism. $5,000,000,000.00 is to be loaned to various war-ravaged countries in Europe, as well as Turkey. The primary recipients of the funds are the United Kingdom, France, and Greece.

Truman Leads at Democratic Convention

The Philadelphia Inquirer, Evening Edition - July 12, 1948

   The Democratic Convention began today in Philadelphia. The results of the first round of voting for President were as follows: Senator Harry S. Truman, 387; Governor Strom Thurmond, 354; Senator Alben W. Barkley, 215; Mayor Hubert H. Humphrey, 179; Senator Richard Russell, Jr., 98; Actor Ronald W. Reagan, 25; Senator Harry F. Byrd, 9. Mr. Thurmond lead a group of Southern Delegates out of the convention when a platform plank was added that officially voiced opposition to segregation in schools. There was a murmur in the convention hall that Mr. Thurmond was planning a 3rd Party bid for President.  Mr. Byrd asked delegates not to vote for him and instead voiced his support for Mr. Truman.

Truman Clinches Democratic Nomination

The Philadelphia Inquirer, Evening Edition - July 13, 1948

    The Democratic Convention wrapped up today. The results of the second round of voting for President were as follows: Senator Harry S. Truman, 783; Senator Alben W. Barkley, 210; Senator Richard Russell, Jr., 156; Mayor Hubert H. Humphrey, 74; Actor Ronald W. Reagan, 44. Mr. Truman was the Vice Presidential nominee of the Democrats in 1944, losing by nearly 100 Electoral Votes. Mr. Humphrey was elected as the Vice Presidential nominee, unanimously, in a move to balance the semi-conservative Truman with the liberal Mayor of Minneapolis.

[DKrol]

Thurmond Nominated by Southern Democrats

Washington Post, Evening Edition - August 5, 1948
 
    Weeks after walking out of the Democratic Convention in Philadelphia, South Carolina Governor Strom Thurmond made his move. At a convention for the newly formed States’ Rights Democratic Party in Birmingham, Alabama, Mr. Thurmond received the nomination of the party unanimously. In his acceptance speech, Mr. Thurmond highlighted on the push for the continuation of “the southern way of life” and a weak Federal Government. Arkansas Governor Benjamin T. Laney was nominated for Vice President. The SRDP is expected to be listed as the Democratic Party in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina. The ticket will run as a third party in all other states.

22nd Amendment Ratified

Washington Post, Special Edition - September 3, 1948

    Just short of a year since being passed by Congress, our Constitution has received it’s 22nd Amendment. Kentucky became the 36th state to ratify the Amendment this afternoon, pushing it into the realm of ratification. President Wendell Willkie immediately praised Kentucky for “making the decision to support” and amendment that will “allow for the smooth governance of the nation. Mr. Willkie announced that he was submitting California Governor Earl Warren, the GOP Vice Presidential Nominee, to Congress for the vacant office of Vice President, adding “I expect this won’t be needed, as we’re going to win on the ballot”.

Willkie Leading in Close Race

New York Times, Evening Edition - October 17, 1948

    In the first three-way Presidential election in modern times, sitting President Wendell Willkie appears stable. A compilation of polls from Harvard University shows the Willkie/Warren (R) ticket leading with 249 electoral votes, over the Democratic ticket of Truman/Humphrey (D) with 103, and the States’ Rights Democratic Party ticket of Thurmond/Laney (SRDP) with 38. Mr. Thurmond is in leading in the toss-up states of Georgia, Arkansas, and North Carolina, coming in a close second in several other states. Analysts say that the existence of Mr. Thurmond on a third party ticket could lead to Mr. Willkie winning some states in the Democratic South, or at least putting up a good show in the region.

[badgate]

Oh sh**t. This could get interesting if it goes to a House. Last I recall Democrats hold the House but that doesn't mean the state delegations down south would support Truman. I'm excited.


Oh and I was wondering if you plan on Hawai'i and Alaska statehood playing out the same way or have you not thought about it?

[DKrol]

Oh sh**t. This could get interesting if it goes to a House. Last I recall Democrats hold the House but that doesn't mean the state delegations down south would support Truman. I'm excited.


Oh and I was wondering if you plan on Hawai'i and Alaska statehood playing out the same way or have you not thought about it?

GOP has the House 239 (R) - 134 (D) - 20 (P) - 14 (FL).

Hawai'i and Alaska will become states...eventually.

[DKrol]

Willkie Launches Out of Gate

President Wendell Willkie/Vice President-designate Earl Warren (R) - 28
Senator Harry S. Truman/Mayor Hubert H. Humphrey (D) - 19
Governor J. Strom Thurmond/Governor Benjamin T. Laney (SRDP) - 8
New York Times, Special Edition - November 2, 1948

    The first returns of the 1948 Presidential Election are coming in to our New York Bureau from across the nation. We can report at this time that Senator Harry S Truman has won the following states: Virginia (11) and West Virginia ( 8 ). This gives him a total of 19 Electoral Votes. President Wendell Willkie has won the following states: New Jersey (16), Vermont (3), Rhode Island (4), and Maine (5). This gives him a total of 28 Electoral Votes. Governor Strom Thurmond has won the following states: South Carolina ( 8 ). This gives him a total of 8 Electoral Votes. Polls have also closed in Ohio (25), Kentucky (11), and Georgia (12) but we cannot report a winner in any of these states.

Thurmond Shows Lock on South

President Wendell Willkie/Vice President-designate Earl Warren (R) - 85
Senator Harry S. Truman/Mayor Hubert H. Humphrey (D) - 42
Governor J. Strom Thurmond/Governor Benjamin T. Laney (SRDP) - 39
New York Times, Special Edition - November 2, 1948

    Results continue to come in  of the 1948 Presidential Election from across the country. We can report at this time that Senator Harry S Truman has won the following states: Missouri (15) and Maryland ( 8 ). This gives him a total of 42 Electoral Votes. President Wendell Willkie has won the following states: Massachusetts (18), Ohio (25), Indiana (13), and Delaware (3). This gives him a total of 85 Electoral Votes. Governor Strom Thurmond has won the following states: Georgia (12), Mississippi (9), and Louisiana (10). This gives him a total of 39 Electoral Votes. Polls have also closed in Michigan (19), Wisconsin (12), Florida ( 8 ), Tennessee (12), and North Carolina (14) but we cannot report a winner in any of these states. An interesting note: we’re being told that early results in Texas, where polls have no closed, show Mr. Willkie with a slight lead over Mr. Truman. Secretary of State Tom Connally has campaigned in the state heavily for the President

Solid South Breaking Up

President Wendell Willkie/Vice President-designate Earl Warren (R) - 197
Senator Harry S. Truman/Mayor Hubert H. Humphrey (D) - 89
Governor J. Strom Thurmond/Governor Benjamin T. Laney (SRDP) - 51
New York Times, Special Edition - November 2, 1948

    Results continue to come in  of the 1948 Presidential Election from across the country. We can report at this time that Senator Harry S Truman has won the following states: Kentucky (11), Illinois (28), and Florida ( 8 ) . This gives him a total of 89 Electoral Votes. President Wendell Willkie has won the following states: New Hampshire (4), Connecticut ( 8 ), New York (47), Kansas ( 8 ), Michigan (19), Texas (23), and Wyoming (3). This gives him a total of 197 Electoral Votes. Governor Strom Thurmond has won the following states: Tennessee (12). This gives him a total of 51 Electoral Votes. Polls have also closed in Arkansas (9), Alabama (11), Pennsylvania (35), Iowa (10), Nebraska (6), and South Dakota (4) but we cannot report a winner in any of these states. Mr. Willkie has captured Texas from Mr. Truman, making this the first time a Republican has won Texas since President Herbert C. Hoover’s sweep in 1928.

[DKrol]

Willkie Holds White House

President Wendell Willkie/Vice President-elect Earl Warren (R) - 285
Senator Harry S. Truman/Mayor Hubert H. Humphrey (D) - 125
Governor J. Strom Thurmond/Governor Benjamin T. Laney (SRDP) - 71
New York Times, Special Edition - November 2, 1948

    Results continue to come in  of the 1948 Presidential Election from across the country. We can report at this time that Senator Harry S Truman has won the following states: North Carolina (14), Oklahoma (10), and Wisconsin (12). This gives him a total of 125 Electoral Votes. President Wendell Willkie has won the following states: Iowa (10), Pennsylvania (35), South Dakota (4), Montana (4), Idaho (4), Oregon (6), and California (25). This gives him a total of 285 Electoral Votes, securing the White House for another 4 years. Governor Strom Thurmond has won the following states: Alabama (11) and Arkansas (9). This gives him a total of 71 Electoral Votes. Polls have also closed in Washington ( 8 ), Minnesota (11), North Dakota (4), and Utah (4) but we cannot report a winner in any of these states.

Final Electoral Results

President Wendell Willkie/Vice President-elect Earl Warren (R) - 316
Senator Harry S. Truman/Mayor Hubert H. Humphrey (D) - 144
Governor J. Strom Thurmond/Governor Benjamin T. Laney (SRDP) - 71
New York Times, Special Edition - November 3, 1948

    Here are the final results of the 1948 Presidential Election. We can report at this time that Senator Harry S Truman has won the following states: Minnesota (11), Utah (4), and New Mexico (4). This gives him a total of 144 Electoral Votes. President Wendell Willkie has won the following states: Nebraska (6), North Dakota (4), Washington ( 8 ), Nevada (3), Colorado (6), and Arizona (4). This gives him a total of 316 Electoral Votes, securing the White House for another 4 years. Governor Strom Thurmond has failed to win any other states. This gives him a total of 71 Electoral Votes.

New Congress Takes Office

Washington Post, Special Edition - January 3, 1949

    The newly elected, 81st Congress took their seats this morning. In the Senate, this puts the balance of power at 45 (+2) seats for the Democrats, 48 (-4) for the Republicans, 2 (+2) for the States’ Rights Democratic Party, and 1 (+/-0)  for the Progressives. In the map above, dark red indicates a Democratic hold, pink indicates a Democratic pickup, dark blue indicates a Republican hold, and light green indicates a States’ Rights pick up. Senator John W. Bricker, a Republican of Ohio, will serve as Majority Leader and Senator Harry S. Truman, a Democrat of Missouri, will serve as Minority Leader. Senators Joseph R. McCarthy (R-WI) and John F. Kennedy (D-MA) will serve as the Majority and Minority Whips. In the House of Representatives,  the Republicans now hold 235 (-4), the Democrats hold 173 seats (+9), the States’ Rights Democrats 21 (+21), the Progressives 4 (-16), and the Farmer-Labor 2 (-12). Representative Leslie C. Arends, a Republican of Illinois, will continue to serve as the Speaker of the House for this Congress.

[DKrol]

Prince of Wales Born

The Telegraph, Special Edition - January 13, 1949

    An heir has been born. Buckingham Palace announce this morning that Queen Wallis has given birth to Their Majesties’ first child, a boy. It announced that he would be named David Lloyd Allen George and given the title of “Prince of Wales”. The Prince weighs 7 pounds, 5 ounces and is described as “a strong young lad”. Leaders from around the world welcome the young prince, except for President Wendell Willkie of the United States. Mr. Willkie has had frosty relations with King Edward VIII since his return to the throne, sharing a much closer bond with King George VI & I of Canada.

Willkie Proposes “Union of Nations” at Inauguration

Washington Post, Special Edition - January 20, 1949

    Today, President Wendell Willkie was sworn in for a second term by Chief Justice Thomas E. Dewey. What stood out was Mr. Willkie’s Inaugural Address. The bulk of the address was spent proposing the idea of a “Union of Nations, where all nations are treated as equals” and international disputed can be mediated “without costly wars”. The UN, as some have abbreviated, would be composed of all nations of the world in a “General Assembly” and then an elite group of nuclear powers in a “Council on Defense and Security”. The plans for the UN were drawn up by Secretary of State Tom Connally and Secretary of War Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Reports of Communist Agents Arise

New York Time, Evening Edition - March 5, 1949

    Senate Majority Whip Joseph R. McCarthy has proposed a list of hundreds of alleged communist agents. Mr. McCarthy released the list of the Times this morning and we’ve spent the day doing research into the various names. The most prominent name was Danny Kaye, the Hollywood funnyman. We reached out to Mr. Kaye’s office but we were told by his secretary “Mr. Kaye does not respond to wild and illogical claims”. Mr. McCarthy assured the media that all the people on the list were Communists, or “had Communist ties”, and were “actively trying to take down the” United States government.

[H.E. VOLODYMYR ZELENKSYY]

but no danny kaye why

[DKrol]

North American Treaty Signed in New York

New York Times, Evening Edition - April 30, 1949

    The leaders of the major nations of North American met today in New York City to sign the North American Treaty. Attending the meeting was Vice President Earl Warren, Canadian King George VI & I and Prime Minister Louis St. Laurent, Mexican President Miguel A. Valdes, and Cuban President Fulgencio Batista. The Treaty was signed at City Hall and creates an organization “to ensure mutual cooperation and security on the North American continent”. The North American Security Organization, or NASO, will be headquartered in San Francisco, California. Mr. Warren attended the summit on the behalf of President Wendell Willkie, who is feeling under the weather.

Soviets Drop Atom Bomb

Washington Post, Special Edition - September 22, 1949

    For the second time in human history an atomic bomb has been detonated. A spokesman for the Air Force first released the information this morning, with details coming from Secretary of War Dwight D. Eisenhower. “Through data collected by the Air Force,” said Mr. Eisenhower “We can report that on August 1st the Soviet Union detonated an atomic bomb. We believe the bomb was plutonium based, similar to the bomb that was dropped on Kyoto.” The bomb is believed to have been tested “in an uninhabited portion of Siberia” and not caused any human deaths. A White House spokesman said that President Wendell Willkie viewed the test as “a very dangerous attack on peace” and stability.

Unemployment Skyrockets

New York Times, Morning Edition - September 29, 1949

    The Bureau of Labor Statistics is hailing 1949 as “the worst year for Americans since the 1930s”. In their monthly report, unemployment has soared to a staggering 6.3% and the GDP has dropped to a meager 1.3%. Many economists cite the end of the Nazi War as the primary cause for this recession, as well as the drop in trade with the United Kingdom. This does not seem to be effecting President Wendell Willkie’s standing with the public. A poll from Gallup shows Mr. Willkie enjoying a 54% approval rating from the general public.

[DKrol]

Communists Take Over China

Washington Post, Evening Edition - October 1, 1949

    The Communist Party has taken control of mainland China. Mao Zedong, the leader of Communist Party, announced in a radio address that the People’s Republic of China has been formed. The previous government, led by Chiang Kai-shek, fled the country for one of the small islands off the southern coast and is establishing a government-in-exile. Secretary of State Tom Connally declared the PRC “a danger to global stability”. President Wendell Willkie did not address the rise of the Communists in China, but a spokesman from the White House seconded Mr. Connally’s statement.

Willkie Recognizes Israel

Washington Post, Evening Edition - January 21, 1950

    A year after Israel became a state, President Wendell Willkie has announced his recognition of the nation. “I have spoken with Secretary Connally and President Weizmann, and it is time to extend the arm of friendship to the State of Israel” said Mr. Willkie at a press conference. This makes the United States one of the first major world powers to recognize the Jewish state. Politicians and religious leaders from across the nation hailed the move as a “step towards rebuilding the world” after the Nazi War.

Another Heart Attack for Willkie

Washington Post, Special Edition - March 13, 1950

     President Wendell Willkie is currently undergoing surgery for his fourth heart attack. Mr. Willkie suffered a heart attack five years ago, and two more within the last 15 years. Doctors report that this may be the final blow for Mr. Willkie, as the risk of death rises with each successive heart attack. Vice President Earl Warren has been taken to the White House, as have Secretaries of State and War Tom Connally and Dwight D. Eisenhower.

[DKrol]

A note: I'm now putting a list of Presidents and Vice Presidents in the first post of the TL, as a reference.

[DKrol]

Willkie Dies in Hospital

Washington Post, Special Edition - March 15, 1950

    The President has died. A spokesman from the White House announced that, at 8:30 this morning President Wendell Willkie passed away following what was his fifth heart attack. Mr. Willkie is the first President to die in office since Warren G. Harding in 1923.  Vice President Earl Warren is expected to be sworn in later today by Chief Justice Thomas E. Dewey. Mrs. Willkie asked for “privacy in this time of mourning”.

Warren Addresses Nation

New York Times, Special Edition - March 16, 1950

     Speaking from a NBC studio in New York City, President Earl Warren addressed the nation for the first time. “My fellow Americans, we are in mourning” was the somber opening to Mr. Warren’s address. He went on to say that he would carry President Wendell Willkie’s “Age of Prosperity Agenda” and push for the desegregation of “the federal government”. Mr. Warren is expected to take a train tour of the nation over the next three weeks, in a move to familiarize himself with the public.

Terrorist Attack at Ford Plant

Detroit Free Press, Special Edition - March 23, 1950

    Three bombs have ravaged downtown Detroit. At approximately noon, three homemade bombs detonated inside the Ford Motor Company factory, causing thousands of dollars of damage and killing at least 80. The Communist Party of America claimed responsibility for the attack, saying “It’s time that the capitalist slave-drivers feel the pain of the proletariat”. Michigan Governor G. Mennen Williams promised that the Michigan National Guard would be used to “find, arrest, and prosecute” the people responsible for the attack.

[DKrol]

North Korea Invades South

Washington Post, Special Edition - June 25, 1950

    Reports from across the globe are coming in now, showing that North Korea has crossed the 38th Parallel and invaded South Korea. Troops from North Korea, under orders from military strongman Kim Il-sung, marched across the border early in the morning and swiftly encroached on Seoul, coming just short of the capital. The South Korean army was poorly organized and put up almost no resistance, leaving most of the fighting up to civilians who were crushed with little effort. President Earl Warren said that the news is “shocking” and “an assault on democracy” but did not commit American troops to battle. The various ambassadors to NASO are meeting in San Francisco in an emergency session to discuss the invasion.

NASO Votes for Inaction in Korea

Washington Post, Evening Edition - June 27, 1950

    The North American Security Organization has made their decision in regards to the crisis in Korea. Harold Alexander, Secretary General of NASO and former Canadian Governor-General, announced at a press conference that the members of NASO had voted “to remain neutral in the conflict in Korea”. The vote was not unanimous, with the Cuban representative dissenting. President Earl Warren spoke about the decision this afternoon, saying “I and my administration will welcome and observe the decision of” NASO.

Seoul Falls to North, Peninsula United

Washington Post, Special Edition - June 30, 1950

    Following a surge in support from Communist China and the U.S.S.R., North Korean forces have taken the entire Korean Peninsula. Northern forces crushed the South Korean capital of Seoul and executed many South Korean government officials. President Earl Warren decried the invasion, saying “The government of the United States stands by the idea of democracy” but we clear to add that the United States would not “under any forseeable circumstances” break the NASO decision of neutrality. Communist Party Chairman Mao Zedong of China applauded the move, saying that the South Koreans were “incapable” to govern themselves properly with the “aide” of the Communists.