Walter Lippmann and the American Century — 10 To the Colors

1. 1. Lippmann secured a draft exemption to serve as special assistant to Secretary of War Newton D. Baker, arguing he could contribute more effectively than as a private.
2. 2. Lippmann married Faye Albertson in May 1917, a match that surprised his friends due to their differing interests and backgrounds.
3. 3. The Lippmanns lived at the 'House of Truth,' a Washington commune for young government officials, where Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes was a frequent guest.
4. 4. Lippmann served as Baker's confidential clerk and handled labor relations, including managing the difficult Samuel Gompers of the AFL.
5. 5. Lippmann helped draft Wilson's response to Pope Benedict XV's peace proposal, arguing that peace must break the power of German militarists, not just end the war.
6. 6. In September 1917, Colonel House recruited Lippmann to lead a secret team to prepare materials for the eventual peace conference, independent of the State Department.
7. 7. Lippmann criticized the Wilson administration's censorship and suppression of dissent, warning it was alienating liberals and radicals.
8. 8. Lippmann believed the war was a noble cause and chided Croly for the New Republic's lukewarm support, insisting the magazine must sound fully committed to a vigorous fighting policy.
9. 9. Lippmann admired Herbert Hoover for his sharp mind and clear exposition of European politics, though Faye was horrified to see Hoover chew an unlit cigar during dinner.
10. 10. Lippmann wrote two adoring tributes to Justice Holmes, praising his heroic life and his ability to inspire young men.