Bush's legacy: Bully or liberator?
In the eyes of the world, President Bush is a bully engaging in "cowboy diplomacy" who has hurt America's image abroad or a liberator who has freed millions from tyranny.
Considering Bush's history before he entered the Oval Office, it is somewhat surprising that his actions in the international sphere will largely define his presidency.
During the 2000 election, then-Texas Gov. George Bush's lack of international experience was not viewed as a liability, and many expected him to focus on domestic issues like education reform and Social Security.
But 9/11 changed that. While admitting that the rhetoric he used could have been less harsh, Bush is unapologetic about his muscular response to the terrorist attacks -- first with the invasion of Afghanistan, and then of Iraq -- that would largely define his international legacy.
Supporters say Bush does not get enough credit for preventing a terrorist attack on the U.S. since the 9/11 attacks or for liberating millions from tyranny in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Read entire article at CNN
Considering Bush's history before he entered the Oval Office, it is somewhat surprising that his actions in the international sphere will largely define his presidency.
During the 2000 election, then-Texas Gov. George Bush's lack of international experience was not viewed as a liability, and many expected him to focus on domestic issues like education reform and Social Security.
But 9/11 changed that. While admitting that the rhetoric he used could have been less harsh, Bush is unapologetic about his muscular response to the terrorist attacks -- first with the invasion of Afghanistan, and then of Iraq -- that would largely define his international legacy.
Supporters say Bush does not get enough credit for preventing a terrorist attack on the U.S. since the 9/11 attacks or for liberating millions from tyranny in Afghanistan and Iraq.