Skip to main content

Secretary Of Defense Or War

July 2024
1min read

Most Overrated Secretary of Defense:

James Forrestal. Why? He was a clinical paranoid schizophrenic who perverted some of the most cherished principles of this country in the name of his own unbelievably perverse conception of national security.

Most Underrated Secretary of War:

Henry Stimson. He was a true statesman, not just an advocate for his department, and his contribution to the successful prosecution of World War II, like so many things in his life, has never been adequately appreciated.

Enjoy our work? Help us keep going.

Now in its 75th year, American Heritage relies on contributions from readers like you to survive. You can support this magazine of trusted historical writing and the volunteers that sustain it by donating today.

Donate