White House Reviews Public Reaction to Eisenhower’s Denial of Clemency in the Rosenberg Case (1953)

Date: February 12, 1953

Created By: William J. Hopkins

Original or Replica: Original

Era: The Presidency, The Rosenberg Case

Collection: Eisenhower Presidential Library

Citations: DDE’s Records as President, Official File, Box 354, OF-101-R Amnesty-Pardons, Rosenberg, Julius and Ethel (1); NAID #12166850

This February 12, 1953 White House memorandum from William J. Hopkins to Thomas E. Stephens summarizes the telegrams received following President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s decision to deny executive clemency to Julius and Ethel Rosenberg. At the time of the memorandum, the White House had received 436 telegrams opposing Eisenhower’s decision and 57 supporting it. Most of the opposition came from major population centers on the East and West Coasts, particularly New York and California. The memorandum notes that fewer than ten percent of the opposing messages addressed whether the Rosenbergs were guilty or innocent; instead, most expressed shock at the decision and urged Eisenhower to reconsider.

Hopkins summarizes the arguments made by opponents of the executions. Some described the death sentences as a miscarriage of justice, incompatible with American decency, or damaging to the nation’s reputation. Others argued that the punishment was unprecedented or more severe than sentences imposed in other prominent espionage cases. Some opposed capital punishment generally, while others simply appealed to Eisenhower for mercy.

The memorandum also summarizes messages supporting the president. These telegrams generally congratulated Eisenhower, commended his decision, or praised him for having the courage to deny clemency. The document provides a useful snapshot of the immediate public response reaching the White House and demonstrates the intense controversy surrounding Eisenhower’s decision in the Rosenberg case.