Benjamin Strong Jr. to Colonel House
Title
Benjamin Strong Jr. to Colonel House
Creator
Strong, Benjamin, 1872-1928
Identifier
WWP18566
Date
1917 August 13
Description
Benjamin Strong Jr. writes Edward M. House regarding war propoganda.
Source
Benjamin Strong Jr. Papers, New York Federal Reserve Bank
Language
English
Text
Dear Colonel House:
Nearly every day’s mail brings a variety of suggestions, criticisms, etc., that is really beyond belief. Few of these deserve attention. I have, however, received a letter from a very wise and influential man up the state, which is so much in line with what became apparent to me while in the West last month, that I think it is worth while sending it to you. Extract from the letter is enclosed.
The gentleman who writes this letter (a man well along in years), is a very discriminating observer of public opinion. If the right kind of publicity is employed just now, it will popularize the war; if news is stifled the reaction to a state of indifference is bound to come until our armies are actually fighting. England went through this same experience and finally met a demand for publicity which I believe brought good results.
I know nothing of the methods or machinery employed to control this matter but feel quite satisfied that the entire absence of news about our men is having a bad effect on our country.
I send you this with considerable reluctance realizing that it is none of my business whatever.
Faithfully yours,
Nearly every day’s mail brings a variety of suggestions, criticisms, etc., that is really beyond belief. Few of these deserve attention. I have, however, received a letter from a very wise and influential man up the state, which is so much in line with what became apparent to me while in the West last month, that I think it is worth while sending it to you. Extract from the letter is enclosed.
The gentleman who writes this letter (a man well along in years), is a very discriminating observer of public opinion. If the right kind of publicity is employed just now, it will popularize the war; if news is stifled the reaction to a state of indifference is bound to come until our armies are actually fighting. England went through this same experience and finally met a demand for publicity which I believe brought good results.
I know nothing of the methods or machinery employed to control this matter but feel quite satisfied that the entire absence of news about our men is having a bad effect on our country.
I send you this with considerable reluctance realizing that it is none of my business whatever.
Faithfully yours,
Original Format
Letter
To
House, Edward Mandell, 1858-1938
Collection
Citation
Strong, Benjamin, 1872-1928, “Benjamin Strong Jr. to Colonel House,” 1917 August 13, WWP18566, Benjamin Strong Jr. Papers, Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum, Staunton, Virginia.