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Herbert Hoover

Early Career

What humanitarian role did Hoover play that thrust him into the spotlight?

Hoover played a large role in London at the outbreak of World War I. He headed up the “Committee of American Residents in London for Assistance of American Travellers.” This organization helped more than 120,000 Americans who were stranded in Europe at the outbreak of World War I. Then, Hoover received a summons from the U.S. embassy in Belgium, asking for his assistance. He became a key leader with the Commission of Relief in Belgium. He worked tirelessly to ensure that food and other provisions were given to Belgians, who faced the prospect of starvation. During this time, he even negotiated with the German government on occasion to ensure the delivery of relief supplies.