Draft of Special Message to the United States Senate Transmitting the North Atlantic Treaty

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9-12-69 to the TO THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES: I transmit herewith for the consideration of the Senate a copy of the North Atlantic Treaty signed at Washington on April 4, 1949, together with the report of the Secretary of State. The fundamental desire of the American people, as of all peoples everywhere, is for peace and security, the chance to live and work in freedom and with hope. This Treaty represents what I believe to be the will of the American people -- that the great influence of the United States be used in the cause of peace. Top often in history wars have occurred because of the mistaken belief of aggressors that other nations were not fully determined to defend themselves. This Treaty is intended to make clear the determination of the government and people: of the United States and of the govern- ments and peoples of our neighbors in the North Atlantic community to do their utmost to maintain peace with justice and, if necessary, to restore it by whatever means they may deem necessary. The American