TELEGRAMS

TRUMAN and STALIN both feared the breakdown of the GRAND ALLIANCE and the subsequent threat of a new war.

Both had secret reports from their embassies for information on the other leader and their plans.

The reports were sent as telegrams.

THE LONG TELEGRAM        

The 8000 word telegram arrived in Washington 22 FEB 1946

TRUMAN recieved a worrying telegram from KENNAN- AMERICA'S AMBASSADOR IN MOSCOW.

The telegram reported that:

• STALIN had given a speech calling for destruction of capitolism
• AMERICA could have NO peace with RUSSIA while it opposed Capitolism
• RUSSIA was building military power.
• The USA should seek to contain Communism.