Though considered unqualified, Harry S. Truman becomes the 33rd president following the April 1945 death of Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Harry S. Truman, a failed farmer, haberdasher, oil prospector, lead miner, banker, law student and county politician, was President of the United States during the country's most troubled times. Widely criticized and constantly embroiled in political battles, Truman departed office in 1952 with one of the lowest approval ratings of any president. However, his intelligence, integrity and decisiveness had a profound effect on world events that continues even now. He faced his trials with homespun candor, humour and wisdom, and a humble belief in hard work. Harry S. Truman - an honest and extraordinary ordinary man, unchanged by power and circumstances, a man that History has now judged one of America's greatest leaders.—HBO Home Video