Final answer:
General Douglas MacArthur recommended the use of atomic bombs and the extension of the war into China to break the stalemate in the Korean War, a suggestion that was rejected by President Harry Truman, who relieved MacArthur due to their differing approaches and to avoid escalation into a broader conflict.
Step-by-step explanation:
To Halt the Stalemate Between North Korean and UN Forces in 1951, During the military stalemate of the Korean War in 1951, General Douglas MacArthur recommended an aggressive escalation of the war to break the deadlock. Frustrated with the conflict's stalled progress near the 38th Parallel, MacArthur suggested that the United States consider using its arsenal of atomic bombs against North Korea and even proposed extending the war into China.
He also advocated for supporting the forces of Chiang Kai-shek in Taiwan should they attack Communist Chinese troops. President Harry Truman, however, recognized the risks of such actions, which could escalate into a much broader war potentially involving the Soviet Union, since they also had nuclear capabilities and had committed to mutual defense with Mao's government in China.
Consequently, Truman decided against MacArthur's recommendations, opting instead to increase troop levels and seek an armistice, eventually relieving MacArthur of his command due to their divergent strategies and MacArthur's insubordination.