Harry S. Truman’s relationship with Canada has received limited attention from historians. But the 33rd president’s appreciation for our “good neighbor to the north” resulted in significant political and economic advances on both sides of the border while fostering an alliance that underpinned America’s global engagement.

Approaching the 70th anniversary of Truman’s move into the White House in April 1945, Roy Norton — the new Canadian consul general to Illinois, Missouri, and Wisconsin — discusses key elements from the period 1945-53 that saw Canada attain its ongoing status as America’s best customer and closest ally.

Appointed less than a year ago, Norton oversees trade and other relations between Canada and his three assigned states from his home base of Chicago.

This event, co-presented by the Truman Library Institute and co-sponsored by the International Relations Council, is made possible by generous grants from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation.