Henry Kissinger Dead at 100

Kissinger played a defining role in American foreign policy during his time as national security advisor and Secretary of State.

Henry Kissinger, a towering figure in American diplomacy and foreign policy, has passed away at the age of 100. As a key architect of U.S. foreign policy and engagement in Asia - and the world at large - in the 20th century, Kissinger's death marks the end of an era in international relations.

Kissinger’s consulting firm, Kissinger Associates Inc., announced his passing on Wednesday (Nov. 29).

Kissinger's diplomatic career was distinguished by his role as national security advisor and Secretary of State under Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford. He was instrumental in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the 1970s, and carried on as one of the most well-known foreign policy figures after his time in office ended in 1977.

Perhaps his most significant contribution was his role in opening relations between the United States and China. In the early 1970s, against the backdrop the Cultural Revolution and Cold War tensions, U.S.-China relations were murky and strained. Recognizing a critical opportunity, Kissinger, then national security advisor, orchestrated two secret trips to China in 1971, working with Premier Zhou Enlai in laying the groundwork for President Nixon's historic visit the following year. This move marked a dramatic shift in the global balance of power and initiated a period of engagement between the two countries.

Kissinger's influence on US-China relations extended beyond this diplomatic breakthrough. He was a proponent of realpolitik, advocating for a pragmatic approach to international relations based on power dynamics rather than ideological alignment. His strategies during the détente era reshaped American foreign policy and contributed significantly to the development of Sino-U.S. relations.

In July, Kissinger made a surprise visit to China, meeting with defense and foreign affairs officials as well as President Xi Jinping, who referred to Kissinger as an “old friend.” During this visit, he emphasized the importance of eliminating misunderstandings and coexisting peacefully to avoid confrontation. He stressed that neither the United States nor China could afford to view the other as an opponent, calling for wisdom, cooperation, and common development, and urging the militaries of both countries to strengthen communication and work towards peace and stability.

Kissinger's legacy in American foreign policy, particularly toward China, is monumental, and his influence on American foreign policy remains a key component of the field of modern international relations.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Nancy Maginnes Kissinger, his two children, David and Elizabeth, and five grandchildren.

This story will be updated as more details become available.