History Will Not Be Kind to Dick Cheney

 The controversial legacy of Dick Cheney, who recently passed away. Known as the vice president under President George W. Bush, Cheney is often criticized for his significant role in shaping U. S. foreign policy, particularly during the Iraq War. This summary highlights key aspects of his influence, controversial decisions, and public perception.

1. Cheney's Political Influence

• Cheney served as vice president from 2001 to 2009, where he was a powerful figure in America’s foreign policy decisions.

• His advocacy for the Iraq War and the promotion of the false narrative that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction marked significant moments in U. S. history.

• Cheney previously directed military operations in Iraq as Secretary of Defense during the Gulf War and was CEO of Halliburton, a major oil company with vested interests in the region.

2. Controversial Foreign Policy

• Cheney expressed ambitions to extend military action across several Middle Eastern countries, not just Iraq and Afghanistan, reflecting a broader neoconservative agenda.

• His emphasis on "hard power" and interventionist policies has contributed to ongoing debates regarding the effectiveness and morality of U. S. military involvement abroad.

3. Perception and Power

• Cheney is often viewed as more powerful than Presidents he served under, with extensive influence over legislative decisions and military actions.

• His involvement in the PATRIOT Act and other legislation expanded government surveillance capabilities, prompting criticism from civil liberties advocates.

4. Ties to the Council on Foreign Relations

• Cheney's connections to the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), a think tank involved in shaping U. S. foreign policy, have been described as secretive and manipulative.

• His interaction with CFR is seen as part of a larger conversation about the "Deep State," portraying concerns over unelected officials’ control over national policy.

5. Impact on American Politics

• Cheney's foreign policy decisions contributed to a backlash against neoconservatism among many voters, especially as opposition to war grew within the Republican Party.

• His actions arguably helped shape Donald Trump's rise by emphasizing a break from traditional Republican foreign policy approaches.

6. Personal Legacy and Familial Impact

• Cheney’s daughter, Liz Cheney, became a prominent Republican figure but faced significant backlash and was ousted from Congress, highlighting the shifting political landscape birthed by her father’s legacy.

Dick Cheney's legacy is defined by controversial military interventions and policies that have left a significant mark on American politics and foreign relations. His decisions during his vice presidency have been scrutinized for their impact on national security, civil liberties, and the shape of modern conservatism. As the effects of his policies continue to resonate, the evaluation of his influence remains polarized among different political factions.

https://thenewamerican.com/us/politics/history-will-not-be-kind-to-dick-cheney/