General Douglas Macarthurs Farewell Address to Congress...

Introduction General Douglas Macarthur was one of the most well known military figures in the history of the United States. He gave his farewell speech to congress on 19th April 1951 and went into retirement after 52 years of service in the United States army. He was given the chance to address his final message to the US government. This analysis carefully examines his ethics, goals, strategies, strengths and weaknesses. The speech is very famous and highly popular among the American audience. Therefore, we will take into account all factors to critically evaluate the speech and find out what makes it important. Historical Background Douglas Macarthur was born on 26th January 1880, in Little Rock, Arkansas to General Arthur Macarthur†¦show more content†¦During the Great Depression, he used force against World War 1 veterans and was highly criticized for his action (Simkin). In 1937, he retired from US Army and took up the position as the field marshal and director of national defense in Philippines offered to him by the Philippine government. In 1941, President Roosevelt recruited him to return to his duty in the US army and he was appointed as the Commander of US Army Forces in the Far East to defend Philippine against the Japanese attacks. He was unable to protect Philippines and he was directed to escape to Australia, where he became the supreme commander of Southwest Pacific theatre. Unhappy with his defeat in the Philippines, he began to plan his counterattacks towards Japan and slowly took over all of New Guinea, the Admiralties, western New Britain, and Morotai. Japanese surrendered in 1945 and he was sent to Japan to occupy it until 1951. The Korean War broke out in 1950 and he was appointed as the supreme commander of the Allied Powers. However, in 1951, President Truman and General Macarthur had conflicting policies for Korea and the President relieved him from his duties. In April 1951, he gave his farewell speech to the Congress (Gale Research). Goals of the Speaker The purpose of this speech is meant for General Douglas Macarthur to say farewell to his contemporaries and fellow soldiers and his military career. He was given the chance to voice his