Henry Kissinger

Henry A. Kissinger, U.S. Secretary of State, 1973-1977

Henry Kissinger (1950 Harvard yearbook)

Sec of State Kissinger

Kissinger Mao

Meeting at Camp David to discuss the Vietnam situation - NARA - 194466

President Ford informally concludes the Vladivostok Summit - NARA - 7062568

Henry Kissinger is a prominent figure in United States political history, known for his role as a diplomat, political scientist, and geopolitical consultant. Born Heinz Alfred Kissinger on May 27, 1923, in Fürth, Germany, to a Jewish family, he fled the Nazi regime with his family in 1938, settling in New York City. Kissinger became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1943. His early academic prowess led him to Harvard University, where he earned a B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. in Government, laying the groundwork for his future career in international relations and politics.

Early Career

Kissinger's early career was marked by his academic achievements and his work in U.S. Army intelligence during World War II. After the war, he returned to Harvard to complete his education and soon became a member of the faculty. During the 1950s and 1960s, Kissinger established himself as a leading expert on foreign policy and nuclear strategy, contributing significantly to the field with his writings and serving as a consultant to various governmental agencies.

Political Career

Kissinger's political career took a decisive turn in 1969 when he was appointed as the National Security Advisor by President Richard Nixon. In 1973, he also became the Secretary of State, holding both positions concurrently until 1975, and continued as Secretary of State under President Gerald Ford until 1977. During his tenure, Kissinger played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. foreign policy, particularly in relation to the Vietnam War, the détente with the Soviet Union, and the opening of relations with the People's Republic of China. His policies and actions, including the controversial secret bombings of Cambodia and support for anti-communist regimes, have been the subject of much debate and criticism.

Nobel Peace Prize

In 1973, Kissinger was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize along with Le Duc Tho of North Vietnam for their efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in the Vietnam War through the Paris Peace Accords. Le Duc Tho declined the prize, citing that his counterpart had violated the truce. The awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to Kissinger has been widely debated and criticized over the years.

Later Life and Legacy

After leaving public office, Kissinger founded Kissinger Associates, a geopolitical consulting firm. He has remained an influential figure in U.S. and international politics, often consulted by leaders and policymakers. His legacy is complex, with significant achievements in diplomacy and peace negotiations contrasted by criticisms of his involvement in military interventions and disregard for human rights in certain instances.

Kissinger's contributions to international relations and his impact on U.S. foreign policy during a critical period of the Cold War era have made him a significant, albeit controversial, figure in history. His strategies and diplomatic maneuvers continue to be studied and debated by scholars and political analysts.