Reevaluating Henry Kissinger's Legacy: A Controversial Perspective

A critical examination of Henry Kissinger's role in U.S.-China relations reveals several myths that have been perpetuated about his involvement. Contrary to popular belief, Kissinger was not the driving force behind the opening to China; it was President Nixon's initiative. Kissinger also lied about the significance of Taiwan during his secret trip to China, making crucial concessions that have shaped U.S. policy towards China and Taiwan. Additionally, Kissinger's failures and embarrassing moments in China diplomacy were conveniently left out of his accounts. His role as an intermediary was largely self-appointed, and his influence on recent U.S.-China diplomacy has been exaggerated. Despite being hailed as a realist, Kissinger's attachment to China was more emotional and romanticized than pragmatic. Overall, his reputation on China is largely a result of his own myth-making.