Final answer:
President Harry Truman, as Commander in Chief, would be held responsible for escalating the conflict in Korea, which he avoided by relieving General MacArthur from command. Truman's actions underscored the U.S. principle of civilian control over the military and prevented a possible World War III.
Step-by-step explanation:
President Harry Truman would be held responsible if the conflict in Korea escalated into a larger war, potentially World War III. Truman was Commander in Chief and recognized General Douglas MacArthur's push for total war in Asia was insubordinate and a violation of the principle of civilian control of the military. Fearing that MacArthur's actions could involve the U.S. in an extended conflict with China and the Soviet Union, Truman relieved MacArthur of command to maintain a limited engagement in Korea.
Truman's decision was met with public scrutiny, as MacArthur was a popular figure, and Truman's approval ratings suffered. However, the Joint Chiefs of Staff supported Truman, emphasizing the importance of civilian oversight over the military. Ultimately, Truman's stance on a limited war in Korea was a precaution against the potential dangers of an expanded war, which would have had profound global implications and possibly involve nuclear weapons.
Despite the initial backlash, Truman's approach was later viewed as a wise decision, reaffirming the constitutional balance and avoiding a direct conflict with major Communist powers. The Korean War eventually concluded with an armistice, maintaining the status quo of a divided Korea and averting the broader conflict that concerned Truman and his advisors.