This is a free event in the Figge Auditorium at the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum.

Join us for a fascinating exploration of Herbert Hoover’s role in shaping the post-World War II world during this special program, Herbert Hoover and Postwar Europe.

This year’s event will feature presentations from two distinguished historians examining Hoover’s humanitarian leadership and foreign policy views during the early Cold War era.

Featured Speakers

Richard A. Leiby
Professor Emeritus of History, Rosemont College
“Herbert Hoover and the Rehabilitation of Germany: 1947–48”

Professor Leiby will examine Herbert Hoover’s postwar mission to Germany following President Harry Truman’s request that Hoover assess the country’s urgent humanitarian needs. In the aftermath of World War II, Germany faced widespread devastation, severe food shortages, and one of Europe’s harshest winters on record. Hoover’s findings and recommendations played an important role in shaping American relief efforts and Germany’s recovery.

Bertrand Patenaude
Research Fellow, Hoover Institution
“Herbert Hoover and the ‘Great Debate’ about NATO: The View from 2026”

Professor Patenaude will explore Herbert Hoover’s views on America’s role in the emerging North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). While Hoover supported international cooperation and collective security, he advocated for clearly defined limits on America’s long-term military commitments. His perspective challenged policymakers to consider how European nations could assume greater responsibility for their own defense while preserving strong alliances.

Together, these presentations offer fresh perspectives on Herbert Hoover’s enduring influence on humanitarian relief, American foreign policy, and international relations in the years following World War II.