Eisenhower Writes to Billy Graham About Moderation and Partisan Divisions over Civil Rights (1956)

Date: March 30, 1956

Created By: Dwight D. Eisenhower

Original or Replica: Original

Era: Elections and Politics, The Presidency

Collection: Eisenhower Presidential Library

Citations: DDE’s Papers as President, Name Series, Box 16, Billy Graham; NAID #12175800

In this personal letter dated March 30, 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower responds to Reverend Billy Graham about the nation’s political situation and an unspecified controversial issue. Eisenhower thanks Graham for keeping earlier suggestions confidential and explains that he had offered those ideas simply for Graham to consider and use as he thought appropriate. He then addresses the political environment surrounding the issue, expressing concern that it would almost inevitably become entangled in partisan politics.

Eisenhower describes himself as a moderate who seeks genuine progress based on conviction rather than what he considers false or politically motivated solutions. He argues that “foolish extremists” existed on both sides of the controversy and were unlikely to accept a reasonable course of action. Nevertheless, he emphasizes that public officials must consider the issue carefully and responsibly. Eisenhower states that any future public comments he makes will follow the same general approach he had previously expressed. However, he declines to recommend specific actions for individuals or organizations, including members of the clergy. The letter illustrates Eisenhower’s preference for moderation and his concern that controversial national issues could become dominated by partisan politics.