The Verdict on Henry Kissinger
In the United States, one of the twentieth century’s most prolific butchers died as he lived — beloved by the rich and powerful, regardless of their partisan affiliation.
Henry Kissinger. (Brandon Downey / Flickr)
Henry Kissinger is dead. The media mill is already churning out fiery denouncements and warm remembrances in equal measure. Perhaps no other figure in twentieth-century American history is so polarizing, as vehemently reviled by some as he is revered by others.
Still, there’s one point on which we can all agree: Kissinger did not leave an exquisite corpse. The obituaries may describe him as avuncular, professorial, even charismatic. But surely no one, not even career sycophants like Niall Ferguson, will dare eulogize the fallen titan as sexy.
How times have changed.
Sorry, but this article is available to active subscribers only. Please log in or become a subscriber.