Fareed's take: Understanding Henry Kissinger

Henry Kissinger is the definition of a statesman. He served as Secretary of State under Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, and is considered one of the most influential figures in American foreign policy. In this week's "Fareed's Take," Fareed Zakaria explores the life and career of Henry Kissinger, and why he continues to be relevant today. Kissinger was born in Germany in 1923 and fled to the United States in 1938 to escape Nazi persecution. He went on to study at Harvard University, where he received his undergraduate and doctoral degrees. After joining the faculty at Harvard, Kissinger became involved in government and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1969, President Nixon appointed Kissinger as his National Security Advisor. In this role, Kissinger played a key role in shaping Nixon's foreign policy, most notably in his approach to the Soviet Union and China. Kissinger's realpolitik philosophy emphasized the balance of power and pragmatic decision-making. He believed that the United States needed to engage with its adversaries, rather than isolate them, in order to achieve its objectives. One of Kissinger's most notable achievements was his secret trip to China in 1971. This visit laid the groundwork for Nixon's historic visit the following year, which ended 25 years of isolation between the United States and China. This groundbreaking move paved the way for the normalization of relations between the two countries and had far-reaching implications for global politics. Kissinger's involvement in the Vietnam War is the subject of much debate and controversy. Many criticized him for prolonging the conflict and not doing enough to end the bloodshed. However, Kissinger was also instrumental in negotiating a ceasefire agreement in 1973, which brought an end to U.S. military involvement in Vietnam. After Nixon's resignation in 1974, Kissinger continued to serve as Secretary of State under President Ford. During this time, he focused on arms control negotiations with the Soviet Union, particularly the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) agreements. These agreements aimed to limit the growth of nuclear weapons and reduce the risk of a nuclear war between the two superpowers. Kissinger's approach to foreign policy was not without criticism. His realpolitik principles often meant overlooking human rights abuses in the pursuit of larger strategic goals. He faced significant backlash for his support of authoritarian regimes in countries such as Chile, Argentina, and Indonesia. Critics argue that his policies prioritized stability over democracy and human rights. However, defenders of Kissinger argue that his pragmatic approach was necessary in a world characterized by great power competition and geopolitical challenges. They highlight his efforts to engage with the Soviet Union and China as essential in maintaining global stability during the Cold War. They also point to his role in negotiating peace agreements in the Middle East, such as the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel. Even after leaving office, Kissinger remains an influential figure in American foreign policy. He has advised numerous presidents and continues to offer his insights on global affairs. His vast experience and deep understanding of international relations make his perspective highly valued among policymakers and scholars alike. In recent years, Kissinger has been vocal about the changing global order and the challenges facing the United States. He has emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong strategic relationship with China while also recognizing the need to address areas of conflict and competition. He has also expressed concern about the rise of populism and nationalism and the impact they may have on global stability. Although he is now in his late 90s, Kissinger's impact on American foreign policy is still felt today. His realpolitik approach and emphasis on engagement continue to shape U.S. policy towards adversaries and allies alike. While his legacy is not without controversy, there is no denying the significant role he has played in shaping the world we live in. In conclusion, Henry Kissinger is a titan of American foreign policy. His pragmatic approach to international relations and his efforts to engage with adversaries have had a lasting impact on global politics. While his policies have faced criticism, his contributions cannot be overlooked. As we navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world, understanding Kissinger's legacy and the lessons he has to offer remains essential.