The two-part PBS documentary “Kissinger,” featured in the American Experience series, provides a nuanced exploration of the life and legacy of Henry Kissinger, who served as national security advisor and secretary of state during the pivotal years of the Nixon and Ford administrations. It delves into how Kissinger wielded his considerable influence to navigate the complexities of the Cold War and avert a potential nuclear catastrophe.
A significant portion of the documentary focuses on Kissinger’s formative years, portraying how his upbringing in an observant Jewish family in Germany during the rise of the Nazi regime profoundly impacted his worldview. Fleeing to the United States in 1938 to escape persecution, he witnessed first-hand the horrors of totalitarianism, resulting in a belief that power, rather than mere ideals, was essential for safeguarding freedom. His participation as a U.S. soldier in the liberation of the Hannover-Ahlem concentration camp further reinforced this belief, fostering a deeply pragmatic outlook on international relations.
Throughout the documentary, Kissinger’s extensive diplomatic accomplishments are highlighted, particularly his role in promoting détente, a policy aimed at easing tensions with communist powers. His shuttle diplomacy during the 1973 Middle East conflict, which helped secure peace between Arab nations and Israel, is showcased as a notable achievement. His pivotal role in opening relations with China and facilitating the SALT I treaty with the Soviet Union in 1972 reflects his strategic acumen, earning him significant acclaim.
However, the film also paints a critical picture of Kissinger’s approach to diplomacy. While he advocated for realpolitik, focusing on pragmatic power dynamics, this often came at the expense of ethical considerations. The documentary exposes instances where Kissinger backed oppressive regimes if they aligned with U.S. interests, including support for the violent military coup in Chile and operations in Cambodia. These decisions reveal a dark side to his legacy, marked by human rights violations and long-term geopolitical instability.
As the documentary explores Kissinger’s leadership style, it illustrates how his tactics fostered an environment where norms and institutional processes were often disregarded. This disregard culminated in a “cult of secrecy,” where the boundaries of acceptable behavior were routinely pushed, contributing to the Watergate scandal. The repercussions of this approach have echoed through time, raising questions about the accountability of government officials.
The documentary does not shy away from the complex and often devastating consequences of Kissinger’s policies. Filmmakers emphasize the human cost of his diplomatic decisions, providing a compelling visceral reminder of the impact on ordinary lives.
In drawing parallels to contemporary geopolitics, the documentary suggests that we may still be navigating “Kissinger’s world,” where power politics often supersede democratic principles. This reflection invites viewers to contemplate the delicate balance between strategic interests and ethical foreign policy, a challenge that continues to resonate in today’s political landscape.
Overall, “Kissinger” prompts essential discussions about the legacies of past leaders and the implications of their decisions on current and future governance, reminding us of the intricate, sometimes precarious interplay between power and morality in international relations. The film underscores the importance of learning from history to ensure a more principled approach to foreign policy moving forward.