National Institute for Deterrence Studies

Peace Through Strength-80 Years Later

About This Conference

Three decades since the Cold War ended and seven decades since the only employment of nuclear weapons in war, the United States is now facing its most significant national security challenge yet. China, North Korea, and Russia are building a collective nuclear arsenal far more extensive than that of the United States. Thus, there is an ongoing debate concerning the size and capability required to ensure the American nuclear arsenal guarantees the continued success of deterrence. 

This one-day conference brings together some of the nation’s leading nuclear experts to discuss these critical topics at the Harry S. Truman Library, in Independence, Missouri. The location could not be more fitting considering that it was President Truman who ordered the use of atomic weapons nearly seven decades ago. The Kansas City metropolitan area is also home to Whiteman Air Force Base and the Kansas City National Security Complex, who play an important role in the nation’s nuclear enterprise.  

Unfortunately, too few Americans understand the role nuclear weapons play in preserving peace, promoting strategic stability, and preventing the kinds of war that were once all too frequent. This event is open to Kansas City area residents that are interested in better understanding nuclear deterrence and the role Kansas City plays in contributing to the peace the nation’s nuclear arsenal is designed to preserve.   
 

This informative event is sponsored by the National Institute for Deterrence Studies.

  • Welcoming Remarks  
  • President Truman’s Decision to Use the Bomb 
  • Is Nuclear Deterrence Still Relevant 
  • The Current Threat Facing the United States 
  • The American Nuclear Arsenal 
  • Kansas City’s Contribution to Deterrence – Fireside chat
  • The Cost of Deterrence 
  • Closing Remarks 

Full Agenda
President Harry S. Truman (left) signs S. 591, the Red Cross Reorganization Bill, at his desk in the Oval Office as Basil O’Connor (center), Chairman of the American Red Cross, and Howard Bonham (right), American Red Cross public relations director, look on.

Register Here

Register

Our sponsors are integral to the success of our initiatives. They share our values and enable us to enhance public understanding of nuclear deterrence and its role in preserving peace and promoting strategic stability. To become a vital sponsor, please visit our sponsorship information page here.

We would be honored to partner with you. 

Become A Sponsor