Sept. 17, 2021

Behind Closed Doors: The Personal Relationship Between Mackenzie King and Franklin Roosevelt

David Reed's thesis discusses the friendship between American President Franklin Roosevelt and Canadian Prime Minister Mackenzie King.
David Reed

Congratulations to David Reed on successfully defending his Masters' thesis.

His committee members included Frank Towers, David Marshall, Michael Nesbitt, and David Bercuson.

We asked David to provide us with some insight into his thesis, and his Graduate studies experience in the Department of Philosophy at the University of Calgary.

Tell us about your thesis topic.

My thesis discusses the friendship between American President Franklin Roosevelt and Canadian Prime Minister Mackenzie King.  The relationship spanned ten years and eighteen meetings.  The thesis analyzes the dynamics of the friendship and its implications for Canadian-American relations and Canada’s position in the Allied command power structure.

What was the most valuable outcome of the Graduate program for you?

The process of researching and writing the thesis was the most rewarding experience.  Getting to consult with a renowned historian, my supervisor as I researched the paper was a great thrill for an aspiring historian.

What are the next steps/plans for you?

I plan to do a PHD in England within the next year.