Niall Ferguson on Henry Kissinger’s Very American Life

July 3, 2026

Written by: Niall Ferguson

In what other country could a penniless Jewish refugee become the secretary of state?

In a new essay for The Free Press, Niall Ferguson reflects on the extraordinary life and legacy of Henry Kissinger, arguing that his rise from a Jewish refugee fleeing Nazi Germany to U.S. Secretary of State represents a uniquely American success story. Ferguson explores how Kissinger’s experiences during World War II shaped his realist approach to foreign policy, influencing landmark achievements including détente with the Soviet Union, the opening of diplomatic relations with China, and Middle East diplomacy. He also examines the enduring controversies surrounding Kissinger’s career, contending that his legacy reflects America’s longstanding tension between global leadership and skepticism of power.

Visit The Free Press to read Niall Ferguson’s full article.

Relevant posts

Time to end secret data laboratories—starting with the CDC

The American people are waking up to the fact that too many public health leaders have not always been straight with them. Despite housing treasure…

Thought Leader: Marty Makary

Newt Gingrich | Election 2024 – State of the Race

Newt Gingrich discusses the upcoming election with two experienced pollsters, John McLaughlin and Doug Sosnik. They discuss key issues voters are considering, the six or…

Jay Clayton on taxing unrealized gains, price gouging ban proposals

Former SEC Chair Jay Clayton joins ‘Squawk Box’ to discuss the Trump vs. Harris economic agendas, taxing unrealized capital gains, federal price gouging ban, and…