Which President issued the executive order to integrate the armed forces?

Harry S. Truman issued the executive order to integrate the armed forces through Executive Order 9981 in 1948. This landmark decision mandated the desegregation of the U.S. military, ending the practice of racial segregation that had been prevalent throughout its history. Truman's order stated that it would be the policy of the United States to provide equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed services, regardless of race, color, religion, or national origin.

The significance of this action was profound, as it not only transformed the military but also served as a catalyst for the civil rights movement by demonstrating a commitment at the federal level to combat racial discrimination. This move was part of a broader post-World War II context where increasing awareness and activism around civil rights were taking shape across the country.

Other presidents mentioned did take important civil rights actions, but none issued an executive order specifically focused on military integration like Truman did. Franklin D. Roosevelt, for instance, led through significant wartime policies and the New Deal but did not address military segregation directly. Lyndon B. Johnson and John F. Kennedy made substantial contributions to civil rights legislation but came after Truman's pivotal decision.