Reference Entry
PRESIDENT EISENHOWER’S FAREWELL ADDRESS
As a former five–star general and Supreme Allied Commander, President Dwight D. Eisenhower brought a unique perspective to his final speech from the Oval Office. On January 17th, 1961, just days before leaving office, he used his farewell address to reflect on the burdens of Cold War leadership. He praised the dedication of armed forces and defense workers, but also warned of the risks that could come from a permanent arms industry intertwined with government.
Dated Historical Context
A RECORDED MOMENT IN HISTORY
President Eisenhower’s farewell address
As a former five–star general and Supreme Allied Commander, President Dwight D. Eisenhower brought a unique perspective to his final speech from the Oval Office. On January 17th, 1961, just days before leaving office, he used his farewell address to reflect on the burdens of Cold War leadership. He praised the dedication of armed forces and defense workers, but also warned of the risks that could come from a permanent arms industry intertwined with government. His phrase “military–industrial complex” captured concerns that the balance between security, liberty, and public spending might tilt too far if citizens were not vigilant. For service members and policymakers, the speech has remained a touchstone in debates over strategy, budgets, and the proper relationship between civilian authority, industry, and the uniformed military.
Read the complete weekly DispatchTrackpads Source Register
