Dick Cheney's Legacy Tainted by Iraq War Decision: 84-Year-Old Former VP Dies
Dick Cheney, who died Monday at the age of 84, was a towering figure in Republican politics and a forceful advocate for American foreign policy. His presidency as Vice President under George W Bush remains one of the most divisive periods in recent US history.
The controversy surrounding the Iraq War still lingers, with many regarding it as one of Cheney's defining legacies - although one that has left deep scars globally. The initial justification for invading Iraq was based on claims that Saddam Hussein had ties to al-Qaeda and possessed weapons of mass destruction. However, these charges were later proven false.
Despite his efforts to rally international support for the invasion, Cheney also maintained a strong stance in defense of using torture against detainees following 9/11, a policy move widely criticized by human rights advocates.
Throughout his long career, Cheney held various influential positions - including White House chief of staff and secretary of defense under George H W Bush. However, it was during his tenure as Vice President that he wields significant sway over US policy.
Critics argue that Cheney's influence on the administration's policies during the Iraq War has left a lasting impact on global politics, while supporters claim his unwavering commitment to defending America remained a driving force behind many of his actions.
Dick Cheney, who died Monday at the age of 84, was a towering figure in Republican politics and a forceful advocate for American foreign policy. His presidency as Vice President under George W Bush remains one of the most divisive periods in recent US history.
The controversy surrounding the Iraq War still lingers, with many regarding it as one of Cheney's defining legacies - although one that has left deep scars globally. The initial justification for invading Iraq was based on claims that Saddam Hussein had ties to al-Qaeda and possessed weapons of mass destruction. However, these charges were later proven false.
Despite his efforts to rally international support for the invasion, Cheney also maintained a strong stance in defense of using torture against detainees following 9/11, a policy move widely criticized by human rights advocates.
Throughout his long career, Cheney held various influential positions - including White House chief of staff and secretary of defense under George H W Bush. However, it was during his tenure as Vice President that he wields significant sway over US policy.
Critics argue that Cheney's influence on the administration's policies during the Iraq War has left a lasting impact on global politics, while supporters claim his unwavering commitment to defending America remained a driving force behind many of his actions.