You are here

A Voice of Conscience The Legacy of Adlai Stevenson

on display in the Seeley G. Mudd Manuscript Library

In the centennial year of his birth, Adlai E. Stevenson is remembered for his contributions to public life: governor of Illinois, Democratic presidential condidate, and United Nations ambassador. In addition, this Princeton University graduate of the Class of 1922 served as a voice of conscience in both domestic and foreign policy during the years that followed World War II. Known for his wit and erudition in an era famous for blandness, Stevenson, in the words of Alistair Cooke, "remains the liveliest reminder of our time that there are admirable reasons for failing to be president." While not tasting the fruits of personal victory, his ideas became reality during the presidential administrations of John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson. He spoke his heart and mind, and in doing so, won the admiration of his countrymen.

Drawing chiefly on the wealth of photographs, documents, recorded material, and memorabilia in the Adlai Stevenson Papers at Princeton University's Seeley G. Mudd Manuscript Library, the exhibition reveals both the private and public facets of Stevenson's eventful life: from confident pronouncements on issues of national importance to moments of anxious introspection