Final answer:
Dwight D. Eisenhower first warned of the consequences of the military-industrial complex in his farewell address, highlighting the risk of defense contractors influencing government decisions and urging the United States to balance military governance within a democratic society.
Step-by-step explanation:
President Eisenhower's Warning about the Military-Industrial Complex
The president who first warned of the consequences of the military-industrial complex was Dwight D. Eisenhower. In his farewell address, President Eisenhower expressed concern about the close relationship between the defense industry, the military, and elected officials. He highlighted the potential for unwarranted influence by this alliance, which could lead to increased military spending and reduced accountability among lawmakers. This was a significant statement considering Eisenhower's military background and his leadership during a period when accusations of being 'soft on Communism' could damage a political figure's career. Yet, Eisenhower was forward-thinking in recognizing the risks of allowing defense contractors to hold too much sway over government decisions.
During his time in office, Eisenhower observed that lobbyists for military equipment manufacturers were donating heavily to political campaigns with the hope of securing favorable procurement decisions. He saw this as a clear attempt to turn government expenditures towards the desires of private enterprises, and it was in this context that Eisenhower spoke out against such influences. He called for vigilance and balance in the governance of the nation's defense, emphasizing the need for the United States to manage its military within a democratic framework without succumbing to the pressures of the military-industrial complex.