Kissinger: A Life of Unparalleled Influence and Controversy

Kissinger: A Biography

by Walter Isaacson

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	23941 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	897 pages

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Henry Kissinger is one of the most enigmatic and influential figures in American history. As Secretary of State under Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, he played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War. Kissinger's complex and controversial legacy continues to be debated today.

In his acclaimed biography, Walter Isaacson provides a comprehensive and nuanced portrait of Kissinger. Isaacson draws on extensive interviews with Kissinger, as well as access to his personal papers and archives. The result is a deeply researched and insightful account of a man who has both fascinated and repelled observers for decades.

Isaacson begins by exploring Kissinger's early life and education. Born in Fürth, Germany, in 1923, Kissinger emigrated to the United States in 1938 to escape Nazi persecution. He attended Harvard University, where he studied political science and history. After graduating, Kissinger served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

After the war, Kissinger returned to Harvard, where he earned a doctorate in international relations. He then taught at Harvard and other universities, and published several influential books on foreign policy. In 1969, Kissinger was appointed National Security Advisor to President Richard Nixon. In this role, he played a key role in developing Nixon's policy of détente with the Soviet Union.

In 1973, Kissinger was appointed Secretary of State. He held this position until 1977, and played a major role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War. Kissinger's diplomacy was often controversial, but he also achieved some notable successes, such as the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt.

Since leaving office, Kissinger has remained an active participant in international affairs. He has served as a consultant to governments and businesses around the world, and has written several more books on foreign policy. Kissinger has also been a vocal critic of the Bush administration's foreign policy, particularly the invasion of Iraq.

Isaacson's biography of Kissinger is a masterful work of scholarship. It is a deeply researched and insightful account of a man who has had a profound impact on world history. Isaacson does not shy away from Kissinger's flaws, but he also gives him credit for his many accomplishments. The result is a balanced and nuanced portrait of a complex and controversial figure.

Kissinger is a must-read for anyone interested in American history, foreign policy, or international relations. It is a fascinating and thought-provoking account of a man who has played a major role in shaping the world we live in.