Henry Kissinger, born Heinz Alfred Kissinger on May 27, 1923, in Fürth, Bavaria, Germany, is a German-born American diplomat, political theorist, and former U.S. Secretary of State, known for his key role in shaping American foreign policy during the late 20th century. He fled Nazi persecution with his family in 1938, moving to the United States, where he eventually became a naturalized citizen. Kissinger attended Harvard University, earning a Ph.D. in political science, where he later became a professor specializing in U.S. foreign policy and international relations.

Kissinger's prominence grew when he served as National Security Advisor and later Secretary of State under Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford. He was a central figure in U.S. foreign policy from 1969 to 1977, especially noted for his use of "realpolitik," focusing on pragmatic and strategic approaches to international affairs. One of his most notable achievements was orchestrating a détente with the Soviet Union and opening diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in 1972. He played a significant role in the negotiation of the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT), aimed at reducing nuclear tensions between the U.S. and the Soviet Union.

In 1973, Kissinger was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in negotiating a ceasefire and facilitating the Paris Peace Accords, which aimed to end U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. However, the decision was controversial, as fighting continued in Vietnam after the accords were signed. His involvement in covert operations, such as the U.S. bombing of Cambodia and the overthrow of Chilean President Salvador Allende, has sparked both criticism and praise, with critics accusing him of prioritizing U.S. interests over human rights.

After leaving government service, Kissinger became an influential figure in international relations, advising several administrations and founding Kissinger Associates, an international consulting firm. He has authored numerous books and articles on diplomacy and international affairs and remains an active commentator on global politics.

Kissinger's legacy is complex, with some viewing him as a master statesman who helped maintain global stability during the Cold War, while others criticize him for policies that led to significant human suffering. His impact on U.S. foreign policy, however, is undeniable, and he remains one of the most influential figures in 20th-century American diplomacy.

REFERENCE:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Kissinger