Eisenhower’s Reading Copy of His Farewell Address Warning of the Military-Industrial Complex (1961)

Date: c. January, 1961

Created By: Dwight D. Eisenhower

Original or Replica: Original

Era: The Cold War, The Presidency

Collection: Eisenhower Presidential Library

Citations: DDE’s Papers as President, Speech Series, Box 38, Final TV Talk (1); NAID #594599

This January 17, 1961 document is President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s reading copy of his Farewell Address, delivered three days before he left the presidency. The pages contain Eisenhower’s handwritten edits and markings, providing a close look at the language he intended to emphasize when addressing the American people. Eisenhower reflects on his years of public service, expresses hope for continued peace and prosperity, and argues that America’s strength must be used responsibly in pursuit of world peace, human dignity, and freedom.

The address is best remembered for Eisenhower’s warning about the emergence of a permanent defense establishment following World War II. He acknowledges that a powerful military and defense industry had become necessary in the Cold War but cautions Americans to guard against the “unwarranted influence” of the “military-industrial complex.” Eisenhower warns that misplaced power could threaten democratic institutions and argues that an informed and vigilant citizenry was necessary to maintain the proper balance between national security and liberty.

Eisenhower also warns about another development: the growing relationship between federal funding, scientific research, and universities. He fears that government contracts and federal employment could exert excessive influence over scholarship and public policy, potentially allowing a “scientific-technological elite” to gain undue power.

The address concludes with Eisenhower expressing disappointment that lasting peace had not yet been achieved while calling for disarmament, international cooperation, fiscal responsibility, and peace with justice.

The document provides an especially valuable primary source because it preserves Eisenhower’s own marked reading copy of one of the most significant presidential farewell addresses in American history.