W. Averell Harriman Quotes

A collection of quotes by W. Averell Harriman.

W. Averell Harriman (1891-1986) was an influential American statesman, diplomat, and businessman. He was born into a wealthy and politically connected family on November 15, 1891, in New York. Harriman attended Groton School and Yale University, where he excelled in academics and sports.

In his early career, Harriman participated in various business ventures and eventually became a successful investment banker on Wall Street. He then turned his attention to public service, serving as an advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the New Deal era. Harriman played a key role in implementing policies to address the Great Depression and later served as the director of the National Recovery Administration.

During World War II, Harriman was appointed as the United States' Lend-Lease administrator, responsible for coordinating aid to Allied nations. He later served as the ambassador to the Soviet Union from 1943 to 1946, playing a crucial role in shaping the United States' relationship with the Soviet Union during and after the war.

Harriman continued his diplomatic endeavors as the Secretary of Commerce under President Harry S. Truman and later as the ambassador-at-large under President John F. Kennedy. He was known for his expertise in foreign affairs, playing a significant role in various international negotiations, including the Paris Peace Accords, which sought to end the Vietnam War.

Throughout his life, W. Averell Harriman was recognized for his intelligence, diplomacy, and astute business acumen. He made substantial contributions to shaping American foreign policy and played a vital role on the global stage. He passed away on July 26, 1986, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service.