Edward Stettinius, Jr. facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Edward Stettinius, Jr.
48th United States Secretary of State
In office December 1, 1944 – June 27, 1945
President	Franklin D. Roosevelt Harry Truman
Preceded by	Cordell Hull
Succeeded by	James F. Byrnes
1st United States Ambassador to the United Nations
In office 1945–1946
President	Harry S. Truman
Preceded by	None
Succeeded by	Herschel Johnson (Acting)
Personal details
Born	Edward Reilly Stettinius, Jr. October 22, 1900 Chicago, Illinois
Died	October 31, 1949(1949-10-31) (aged 49) Greenwich, Connecticut
Political party	Democratic
Spouse	Virginia Gordon Wallace
Children	Edward R. "Ed" Stettinius, III Wallace Stettinius Joseph Stettinius
Alma mater	University of Virginia
Profession	Businessman

Edward Reilly Stettinius, Jr. (October 22, 1900 – October 31, 1949) was an American politician and businessman. He played important roles in the United States government during and after World War II. He served as United States Secretary of State under Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman from 1944 to 1945. He was also the very first United States Ambassador to the United Nations, helping to set up this important global organization.

Who Was Edward Stettinius Jr.?

Edward Stettinius Jr. was a key figure in American politics during a very busy time in history. He helped lead the country through the end of World War II. He also played a big part in creating the United Nations, an organization that works for world peace.

Early Life and Business Career

Edward Stettinius Jr. was born in Chicago, Illinois, on October 22, 1900. His father was a successful businessman. Edward went to the University of Virginia. He studied there and later started his own career in business.

After college, Stettinius worked for a company called General Motors. He quickly moved up in the company. By 1931, he was a vice president. He was known for his skills in managing large projects.

Helping America During World War II

As World War II began, Edward Stettinius Jr. left his business career. He started working for the U.S. government. President Franklin D. Roosevelt asked him to help.

One of his first big jobs was leading the Lend-Lease program. This program allowed the U.S. to provide military aid to its allies. Countries like Great Britain and the Soviet Union received supplies. This help was crucial for fighting against Nazi Germany and Japan. Stettinius made sure these vital supplies reached the countries that needed them.

Secretary of State During Wartime

In 1944, President Roosevelt chose Stettinius to be the United States Secretary of State. This is the top diplomat for the country. He took over this important role as World War II was ending.

As Secretary of State, Stettinius helped plan for the post-war world. He worked on creating a new international organization. This organization would aim to prevent future wars.

A Key Role in the United Nations

Edward Stettinius Jr. played a very important part in forming the United Nations. He led the U.S. delegation to the Dumbarton Oaks Conference in 1944. This meeting laid the groundwork for the UN.

He also led the U.S. delegation to the San Francisco Conference in 1945. At this conference, the United Nations Charter was written and signed. This document officially created the United Nations.

After the UN was formed, President Harry S. Truman appointed Stettinius as the first United States Ambassador to the United Nations. He helped set up the new organization. He worked to make sure the UN could achieve its goals of peace and cooperation.

Later Life and Legacy

Edward Stettinius Jr. left his role as Ambassador to the UN in 1946. He then worked on other projects. He focused on helping economic development in Liberia, a country in Africa.

He passed away on October 31, 1949, at the age of 49. Edward Stettinius Jr. is remembered for his important work during World War II. He also helped create the United Nations, an organization that still works for peace today.

See also

• In Spanish: Edward Stettinius Jr. para niños