Liderazgo: Seis estudios sobre estrategia mundial

by Henry Kissinger, Ramón González Férriz (Translator), Marta Valdivieso Rodríguez (Translator)

Henry Kissinger analyses how six extraordinary leaders he has known have shaped their countries and the world

'Leaders,' writes Henry Kissinger in this compelling book, 'think and act at the intersection of two axes: the first, between the past and the future; the second between the abiding values and aspirations of those they lead. They must balance what they know, which is necessarily drawn from the past, with what they intuit about the future, which is inherently conjectural and uncertain. It is this intuitive grasp of direction that enables leaders to set objectives and lay down a strategy.'

In Leadership, Kissinger analyses the lives of six extraordinary leaders through the distinctive strategies of statecraft which he believes they embodied. After the Second World War, Konrad Adenauer brought defeated and morally bankrupt Germany back into the community of nations by what Kissinger calls 'the strategy of humility'. Charles de Gaulle set France beside the victorious Allies and renewed its historic grandeur by 'the strategy of will'. During the Cold War, Richard Nixon gave geostrategic advantage to the United States by 'the strategy of equilibrium'. After twenty-five years of conflict, Anwar Sadat brought a vision of peace to the Middle East by a 'strategy of transcendence'. Against the odds, Lee Kwan Yew created a powerhouse city-state, Singapore, by 'the strategy of excellence'. Although when she came to power Britain was known as 'the sick man of Europe', Margaret Thatcher renewed her country's morale and international position by 'the strategy of conviction'.

To each of these studies, Kissinger brings historical perception, public experience and - because he knew each of their subjects, and participated in many of the events he describes - personal knowledge. The book is enriched by insights and judgements such as only he could make, and concludes with his reflections on world order and the indispensability of leadership today.

Genres: Politics, History, Leadership, Nonfiction, Biography, Business, International Relations

663 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 5, 2022

About the author

Henry Alfred Kissinger (born Heinz Alfred Kissinger) was a German-born American bureaucrat, diplomat, and 1973 Nobel Peace Prize laureate. He served as National Security Advisor and later concurrently as Secretary of State in the Richard Nixon administration. Kissinger emerged unscathed from the Watergate scandal, and maintained his powerful position when Gerald Ford became President.

A proponent of Realpolitik, Kissinger played a dominant role in United States foreign policy between 1969 and 1977. During this period, he pioneered the policy of détente.

During his time in the Nixon and Ford administrations he cut a flamboyant figure, appearing at social occasions with many celebrities. His foreign policy record made him a nemesis to the anti-war left and the anti-communist right alike.

Reviews

[Steve Donoghue]

A noxious, wheedling attempt by a century-old war criminal to rehabilitate the posthumous reputations of a couple of his fellow monsters by putting them in the same Table of Contents as some relatively decent and at least one genuinely good people. It doesn't work; the evil characters stand out like spiders in a bathtub, and Kissinger's own evil is likewise obvious on almost every page. My full review is here: https://openlettersreview.com/posts/l...

[Bakunin · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is an endless discussion going on between my father and me regarding the value of history. Is it just 'one damned thing after the other'? What is the point of studying it? And how can we be sure that we really understand historial epochs?

In Kissingers latest book he discusses 6 different world leaders in order to get at the essence of what good leadership is. I didn't find the different leaders to be especially interesting seeing as how I've already read much about them and it is hard not to laugh when he writes about Nixon showing "courage" and "character". Its also slightly infuriating how Kissinger ingratiates himself with these leaders (having met them all). ((What Kissinger means with it is something closer to good judgement when it comes to foreign politics i.e. the capacity to act in the best interest of ones own nation.))

What was interesting however was Kissinger cultural analysis. Kissinger makes a compelling case that today's educational system doesn't produce enough good citizens and instead produces egotists who want to have a successful career in multi-national corporations. Merit today is defined as intellect compounded by effort whereas leaders need more than that. They need courage, character and sharp analytical faculties. For these 6 leaders education was "not merely a credential to be obtained in one's youth and set aside: it was an unending effort with both intellectual and moral dimensions" (p.400) This is one of the reasons for the decline which people have in leaders today and therefore also the decline of confidence in the political system as a whole.

The shift of emphasis from the written word to image has also skewed leaders and favored those who are perhaps are less thoughtful. Leadership becomes more about packagin and advertising, rather than actually having any actual value to people. In social media there are no 'leaders', only influencers and followers. At times I think that Kissinger is being too critical of today's technology and sees only its downsides. But I too find it deeply problematic that solitude and deep thinking are becoming all the more rare.

To get back to my question at the start of this review: reading up on history can provide one with analogies that are needed as a statesman and 'readership also creates a 'skein of intergenerational conversation', encouraging learning with a sense of perspective" [...] When combined with reflection and the training of memory, it also provides a storehouse of detailed and granular knowledge from which leaders can reason analogically" (p. 406) And not only that but also: "deep literacy supplies the quality Max Weber called 'proportion' or 'the ability to allow realities to impinge on you while maintaining an inner calm and composure'" (p. 405)

I will end on this note:
"Leadership is most essential during periods of transition, when values and institutions are losing their relevance, and the outlines of a worthy future are in controversy." (p. xvi) Which of our current leaders have the capacity for abstract thought, vision and erudition to really handle the challenges of today?

[Sebastian Gebski · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn't have very high expectations, but I've decided to give it a go after some comments from Ray Dalio. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a disappointment. Why so?

1. it's not a book about leadership; it's a book that justifies (or: "presents in a correct spotlight") a few certain political figures, their actions, and (in general) the legacy - Kissinger's personal admiration (and sentiments) is cleary visible here, much more than references to actual qualities

2. with all the respect - Kissinger was a man of 7os, 8os, maybe 9os, but his perspectives on what has happened after that (raise of AI, Russian invasion, etc.) are just naive and ... cringe-y; he turns out to be a naive senior gentleman (which is not far from the truth - just check the Theranos case and how Kissinger was fooled by Holmes there).

3. I'm giving it more than 1 star mainly because the book contains some interesting geo-political details I was not aware of - some about Northern Ireland, some about the Middle East.

In general - a rather uninspiring read; OK if you already have some perspectives on the occurrences of the era (so you don't rely only on heavily biased information from Kissinger).

[Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible book. This is so far the most interesting and illuminating book I read this year.
This book combines in a most masterful way:
- Interrelations between countries on a high level (macro)
- Personalities (micro)
The book highlights connections between the two through history and political events in such a masterful way that you end up wondering - did I just read about a character of a country or a geography of a person?

This constant gentle movement from macro to micro creates a web of understanding about the events of a critical era (that are still shaping our world today) in a way I didn't experience before. The closing chapter was absolutely brilliant as well.

The most interesting case-studies out of the six for me were: Charles De Gaulle, Margaret Thatcher, and of Lee Kuan Yew (absolutely mind blowing).
I already purchased Lee Quan Yews book 'From Third World to First', and Margaret Thatcher's biography 'Not for Turning'. I hope these books will continue the brilliant chain of insights started when reading 'Leadership'.

Highly recommended.

My favourite quotes from the closing chapter:
"It is not necessary for the leaders of the contemporary great powers to develop a detailed vision of how to resolve the dilemmas described here immediately. They must, however, be clear on what has to be avoided and cannot be tolerated. Wise leaders must preempt their challenges before they manifest themselves as crises."

"Max Weber has described the essential qualities needed for transformative leadership: The only man who has a 'vocation' for politics is one who is certain that his spirit will not be broken if the world, when looked at from his point of view, proves too stupid or base to accept what he wishes to offer it, and who, when faced with all that obduracy, can still say 'Nevertheless!' despite everything"

[Bill Manzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The new book by Henry Kissinger looks at six historical figures and the leadership skills that they brought to bear on the rather monumental problems they faced in the post World War II era. I took a look at some of the reviews before I bought the book and will need to dispense with some of the issues raised in those reviews, as they are a constant when dealing with all things Kissinger.

We always will get a substantial group of reviewers that indicate that the book was terrible because it includes some self serving revisionism by Kissinger, and that in any case he is a war criminal etc, etc. Relying on the review of someone describing Kissinger in those terms will not bring a potential reader a fair estimation of the book. I discard those reviews despite having some real disagreements with Kissinger/Nixon policies in Indochina, and with some of his actions as National Security advisor and Secretary of State to President Nixon. Disagreements do not take away from Kissinger’s underlying brilliance, and have nothing to do with books by Kissinger, or about him.

This book looks at six leaders from the Post World War II era, with Kissinger describing a specific type of leadership trait in each that he believes produced groundbreaking results for the countries they led. His observations, in my view, are insightful, and bring some important concepts on leadership forward that have practical meaning for current and future leaders.

Kissinger has highlighted the career and leadership traits of:

Konrad Adenauer (The Strategy of Humility)
Charles DeGaulle (The Strategy of Will)
Richard Nixon (Strategy of Equilibrium)
Anwar Sadat (Strategy of Transcendence)
Lee Kuan Yew (Strategy of Excellence)
Margaret Thatcher (Strategy of Conviction)

Kissinger knew, and in some fashion worked with, each of these individuals. In reviewing the book Admiral James Stavridis said:

“This is an extraordinary book, one that braids together two through lines in the long and distinguished career of former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger. The first is grand strategy: No practical geopolitical thinker has more assuredly mastered the way the modern global system works or how nations use the tools of statecraft to bend an often-resistant world to their will. But Mr. Kissinger is also an astute observer of the personal element in strategy—the art and science of leadership, or how, on the executive level, “decisions [are] made, trust earned, promises kept, a way forward proposed.”
Wall Street Journal, July 9, 2022 “Follow the Leaders” James Stavridis

To me that snippet from the review gives us a great overview of what this book is about. Different problems, and differing approaches to problem-solving unique to these leaders and the specific time in history that thrust them into leadership positions. After some biographical information about each Kissinger gives us a great view on how each of these leaders contributed in areas that required extraordinary skills to navigate, and the leadership qualities that helped them to succeed. Kissinger does not sugarcoat deficiencies but hyper-criticism is not the point of the book. Kissinger ties it together with a last chapter aptly titled “Conclusions” that brings additional historical insights and observations.

As you read Kissinger you understand his views, and how those views color his analysis. His chapter on Nixon, the strategy of equilibrium, fairly well establishes a core Kissinger value. Equilibrium is a constant theme for Kissinger, more so than the oft-described philosophy of “realism” used to describe him frequently.

Each one of these individuals contributed to the new world order developed after the calamity of World War II. Adenauer, the first Chancellor of the West German government that arose after the war, gave a speech that would give an idea of where he would steer the German people.

“Criticizing Germany’s conduct under Hitler. Adenauer asked an audience of thousands in the severely damaged main hall of the University of Cologne how it was possible that the Nazis had come to power. They had then committed ‘great crimes’, he said, and the Germans could find their way toward a better future only by coming to terms with their past. Such an effort would be necessary for their country’s revival. From this perspective, Germany’s attitude after the Second World War needed to be the opposite of its reaction to the First. Instead of indulging in self-pitying nationalism once again, Germany should seek its future within a unifying Europe. Adenauer was proclaiming a strategy of humility.”

Leadership, Kissinger, Henry p 9

Adenauer, in one of his final conversations with Kissinger, highlighted a true leadership conundrum. Adenauer had, through his leadership, steered post war Germany towards reconciliation and European integration, with special emphasis on repair of the relationship with France. This was not always a consensus view but Adenauer had steered the Federal Republic towards it on a long term basis. This conversation, after Adenauer’s retirement, brought forward the question to Kissinger (in response to Kissinger asking him to evaluate the existing leadership of West Germany)
“Are any leaders still able to conduct a genuine long range policy? Is true leadership still possible today?”
Leadership, Kissinger, Henry p 42

That question was posed in 1967 and is still a bona fide concern in the democracies today.

Adenauer and Lee Kwan Yew would likely be the least recognizable of the six figures, and in some respects the most significant, in terms of studying effective leaders. Lee Kwan Yew should be required study for all those that aspire to political leadership. His building of the city-state of Singapore is a textbook example of success not being reliant on size. His methodology would not always pass a test of democratic norms, but his strong emphasis on good, corruption free governance, excellence in business and an adherence to the rule of law brought real results. Kissinger cited some pretty impressive statistics.

“An assessment of Lee’s legacy must begin with the extraordinary growth of Singapore’s per capita gross domestic product from $517 in 1965 to $11,900 in 1990 and $60,000 at present (2020.)”

Leadership, Kissinger, Henry p 313

Of course Kissinger is not an economist so we get an examination of Lee from a foreign policy point of view. Kissinger has strong admiration for the balancing act that Lee performed between China, the U.S. and the Soviet Union. Kissinger admires Lee’s devotion to “order” and the way he strategically balanced his foreign policy in a multi-polar world. (Equilibrium?) Lee was a truly fascinating leader worthy of more study.

Kissinger, as mentioned, did not dwell on the negative, but managed to provide balance, with an occasional wry observation that makes a point with a bit of humor. In speaking of a dispute between Charles de Gaulle and Marshall Petain over literary credit on a post World War I book, Kissinger observed:

“The capacity for gratitude not being among de Gaulle’s most highly developed traits….”

Leadership, Kissinger, Henry p 58

Kissinger’s relationship with Sadat may be one of the most important, in a sense of real accomplishment, by both men. Kissinger acknowledges a truth that was highlighted in Martin Indyk’s book “Master of the Game,” which was that he initially dismissed Sadat, not considering him to be a first rate leader, anticipating that he would be a short termer. That misjudgment was a contributing factor in the outbreak of the Yom Kippur war launched by Sadat and Hafez al-Assad against Israel. Kissinger does manage to stick in a very indirect criticism of a piece of the Jimmy Carter Middle East policy, due to the inclusion of the Soviets, but concedes that Sadat took that policy and in leapfrogging it ended up in Jerusalem.

The chapters on the Iron Lady Margaret Thatcher and Richard Nixon will of course bring some criticism but are worthy and well done. I did not fully agree with the characterization of the Thatcher policy on Northern Ireland but that did not detract from my understanding and appreciating the larger points made. As always with Nixon Kissinger does not hesitate to acknowledge the flaws but highlights some of the major accomplishments of the Nixon Administration on foreign policy. Self interested? Maybe a bit, but the Nixon Presidency is worthy of plenty of discussion, and has some impacts that are still with us today.

In the Admiral Stavridis review he regrets that Kissinger did not make the book longer by including some other figures such as Deng of China and Bismarck. I agree, but would also include Zhou Enlai, who Kissinger has described as one of the most impressive men he has ever met. Even at his age he is still producing impressive works of literature that impart valuable insights. You do not have to agree with everything Kissinger believes to glean value from those insights. Highly recommended.

[Andrew Carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've always found Kissinger a hard author to place. 'Diplomacy' is an enduring classic, his earlier books on nuclear weapons and foreign policy could be compelling, while I found 'World Order' a rambling banality, and 'On China' both engaging and self-indulgent.

Leadership: Six Studies in World Strategy is a profoundly wise book. It profiles six mid-2oth century figures (Konrad Adenauer, Charles de Gaulle, Richard Nixon, Anwar Sadat, Lee Kuan Yew and Margaret Thatcher) and details how they lead and reshaped their countries. Kissinger identifies each with a distinct and very different general theme - Humility, Will, Equilibrium, Transcendence, Excellence and Conviction, and convincingly explains how each idea defined their approach.

Where this book shines is in describing how each leader acted in person. The way they sought to shape their character and their approach to fit their moment. The word 'strategy' is somewhat apt, in that Kissinger shows how each of the 6 identified the biggest problems of their society, and in sympathy with the history and traditions of their society, sought to solve those problems. They adapted their approach to their times and themselves, while focused on the larger, longer term issues.

The wisdom in this book comes from the fact Kissinger knew each of them. He details their conversations and his observations of how they worked, often in moments of crisis. He shows how each quite deliberately shaped their character and approach to fit the times they were in and the problems their nation faced. Each taking a very different approach, but one appropriate to their times.

I found 'Leadership' a powerful counter to the view often put forward in the media today that there is only one model of leadership, the 'conviction' leader of values and strength. That nay have worked for Thatcher and Reagan, but it would have failed in all of the other leader's environments. It has failed an entire generation of leaders in the West who have taken it as the lode star.

The best of the essays are on Adenauer, de Gaulle and Lee. There is insight and clarity about their approach, and Kissinger remains only a sideline figure, having brief conversations to understand them in person, but without stakes in the fights of their times. Those where he struggles to separate his own role - Nixon and Sadat - read as more conventional accounts of their eras. Though the insights about Nixon's quixotic approach and personality are engaging. (And as an aside, I learned that the 1969 Guam Doctrine comments were planned carefully in the White House & flight over, rather than in any way being a spur of the moment declaration).

As such, I don't recommend trying to read this as a history lesson on these figures. I've already read plenty on Nixon and LKY, and have ordered a biography of de Gaulle based on this account. Kissinger offers a sometimes bloodless account of these figures, implying a clearer, linear and easier path than was felt at the time or than historians prefer. Indeed, in one near-self referential passage midway through he notes 'Historical memory is often endowed with the appearance of inevitability; gone are the doubt, risk and contingent nature of events that accompany - and, on occasion, threaten to overwhelm - participants in the moment'. Anyone reading this book should be careful to understand these events are likely more confusing in the detail than in the 60 page essays presented herein.

But there is a real, Plutarch-like value in looking at these as stories of character and leadership rather than efforts to nail down the historical record. The book offers a compelling critique of modern leadership, especially in the West: Where are the leaders who show a deep knowledge of their own societies? Where are the leaders who have molded their character to their times? And where are the leaders willing to directly confront the biggest problems, without suggesting there are easy resolutions that naturally fit their political party's worldview?

The example of Japan's Abe Shinzo, (not mentioned in the book) comes to mind as embodying a similar cast to the historical figures here. But in the US? In the UK? In Australia? It seems a long time since. Even if, as managers or fire-fighters we have had some of decency. But as statesmen* equal to these troubled times?

A book to drink deeply from, even if you shouldn't treat it as gospel.

*Please excuse the gendered language, but it's a useful word.

[Sorin Hadârcă · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was immediately attracted to a book that covers Adenauer, de Gaulle, Nixon, Sadat, Lee Kuan Yew and Thatcher in one seating. Yet the title was misleading – is this the ultimate set? Was it really strategy? I would have scratched some, added some others. But I understand that being personally acquainted with the six, Henry Kissinger did a good job in focusing on whom he knows in person.

None of the six (except Adenauer, perhaps) were flawless, some would even contest their greatness. However, this is where the volume disappoints: no critique, only good words. Kissinger is very forgiving, especially with Nixon under whom he served.

What saves the book is that it establishes a timeline for the twentieth century history and derives well-thought conclusions for the current times. In the Internet era leadership is no longer what it used to be. Demand for immediacy, intensity, polarity and conformity, says Kissinger, is what prevents good leaders taking the central stage today. I wonder what's in store for us next.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ordinary leaders seek to manage the immediate; great ones attempt to raise their society to their visions.

I have been lazy recently to write book reviews but these six leaders made me have to do one:
- Konrad Adenauer, the first chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany from 1949 to 1963, uncompromisingly asked his fellow members of parliament who were complaining about the terms imposed by the Allies in their postwar occupation of Germany.
- Nixon, who pioneered the use of modern marketing techniques in politics, still pride himself on speaking without notes based on his mastery of world affairs in a direct and plainspoken way.
- Anwar Sadat, best known for the peace treaty with Israel that he brought to Egypt, understood that a just peace could be achieved only through an organic evolution and the recognition of mutual interests, not from imposition by outside powers.
- Lee Kuan Yew had forged a society that transcended his own life and meant his legacy to inspire, rather than inhibit, progress.
- Margret Thatcher, facing Britain's nostalgia for lost imperial glories and the abiding regret of national decline, had courage in departing so dramatically from the received wisdom of the time, and character in staying the course consistently as her tough medicine drew sharp complaint from the patient. She aims at the preservation of the United Kingdom, international engagement on the basis of democratic principles and domestic governance founded on individual self-sufficiency - supplemented by acknowledgment of Britain's postwar consensus on the need for a stable health service and welfare state.
- Charles de Gaulle walks through history as a solitary figure - aloof, profound, courageous, disciplined, inspiring, infuriating, totally committed to his values and vision, and refusing to diminish them by personal emotion.

Great leaders intuit the timeless requirements of statecraft and distinguish, among the many elements of reality, those which contribute to an elevated future and need to be promoted from others which must be managed and, in the extreme case, perhaps only endured.

All six could be bold and acted decisively on matters of overriding national importance even when conditions - domestic or international - appeared decidedly unfavorable. They wanted their peoples to follow along the path they led, but they did not strive for consensus; controversy was the inevitable by-product of the transformations they sought.

Is true leadership still possible today?
The question has been asked before, and leaders have emerged who rose to the occasion. When societies are blessed with peaceful times and indulge the slow corruption of standards, the people may follow 'either a man who is judged to be good by common self-deception or someone put forward by men who are more likely to desire special favors than the common good'. But later, under the impact of 'adverse times' - ever the teacher of realities - 'this deception is revealed, and out of necessity the people turn to those who in tranquil times were almost forgotten'.

The six leaders discussed here developed parallel qualities despite the profound differences among their societies: a capacity to understand the situation in which their societies found themselves, an ability to devise a strategy to manage the present and shape the future, a skill in moving their societies toward elevated purposes, and a readiness to rectify shortcomings.

[Pablo Buenahora · Rating 4 out of 5]

Un gran libro con muchas enseñanzas de grandes líderes del siglo XX. Como lección, resaltó la importancia (y la dificultad) de tener una fuerte convicción en las ideas propias sin abandonar la apertura de pensamiento para complementarlas / adaptarlas a diferentes circunstancias.

Mis favoritos:

1. Margaret Thatcher
2. Lee Kuan Yew
3. Charles de Gaulle
4. Konrad Adenauer
5. Anwar Sadat
6. Richard Nixon

[Jim S · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I have read in years and highly recommend it if you want a better idea of the current world.
Dr Kissinger profiles significant leaders who talents, determination , brilliant assessment of the history of their countries and place in the world order and showing how their leadership and vision for the future was such a help to their countries growth and place in the world. Adenauer of Germany led his country from the total devastation of WWIi and their Nazi past to a place of leadership in Europe and the world. Charles de Gaulle did the same with post WW II France, Nixon's great accomplishments in the opening to China, ending the war in Viet Nam against a backdrop of disastrous Watergate at home .The spectacular development of Singapore under the guidance of Lee Kuan Yew which demonstrates what effective and determined leadership can do for a country. Margaret Thatcher's huge success in the 1980s with mulilple crises for the UK and her close relationship with Reagan and the partnership with the US. Anwar Sadat in Egypt was very interesting to me and the determination to move his country to a different place that its recent history would suggest and for which he would be assassinated. The epilogue if very interesting regarding Dr Kissinger's thoughts on the current world order and the importance of "deep literacy" of life long learning and the importance of character in national leaders.

[Toros Yesja · Rating 4 out of 5]

Provides great context into the politics of the 20th century and also served to disillusion me as to how diplomacy/government is conducted at the top of the power hierarchy. Before reading this, I always thought it was much more institutionalized but it turns out that it's actually very human and personal which is honestly really scary given the failings of human nature.
Of course all the leaders discussed were inspiring in their own ways (and strong characters ofc) but then this book is sort of a tribute of Kissinger's to his "friends", so you might find it useful to temper your impressions of the figures with your own research.

[Mariel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Independientemente de lo controversial que ha sido Kissinger en vida, sobre todo para los pueblos de Latinoamérica, este libro es espectacular.

Desde las anécdotas de su vida personal, al análisis de los sucesos internacionales, pasando por la descripción detallada de la vida, trayectoria e ideales de cada uno de estos líderes, es un libro magistral.

El capítulo teórico al inicio y la reflexión final, cierran con un broche de oro esta gran obra...

[Espen Stølan Holten · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meget lesbar, og for meg en veldig god intro til disse seks lederne. Eneste jeg savner er litt mer analyser fra Kissinger, slik som han gjør i siste kapittel. Det siste kapitlet ble for kort, og det er det sjeldent det er…

[Tobias Esslemont-Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved it. Snapshot into 6 of the most significant leaders post WW2 and what quality defined their tenures. Recommend to anyone who wants to learn about history quick, from an intellectual (controversial at that) who dealt with each of them personally.

[Chad Manske · Rating 5 out of 5]

I humbly came to know Henry Kissinger while I was the Commandant of National War College in 2018 when he lectured to our students at the prime age of 94. He was engaging and wise, though limited in his mobility. Our fireside chat format moderated by a senior faculty member who invited him was the 23rd such lecture at the college, and turned out to be, via student survey, the top lecture of the academic year! Leadership, his 2nd book published since our meeting, now less that two months from publication, demonstrates why and how he ranks as one of the greatest diplomats of our time. And at the age of 99, I don’t think there’s any stopping him from producing. ‘Leaders,' writes Henry Kissinger in this compelling book, 'think and act at the intersection of two axes: the first, between the past and the future; the second between the abiding values and aspirations of those they lead. They must balance what they know, which is necessarily drawn from the past, with what they intuit about the future, which is inherently conjectural and uncertain. It is this intuitive grasp of direction that enables leaders to set objectives and lay down a strategy.' In Leadership, Kissinger analyses the lives of six extraordinary leaders through the distinctive strategies of statecraft which he believes they embodied. After the Second World War, Konrad Adenauer brought defeated and morally bankrupt Germany back into the community of nations by what Kissinger calls 'the strategy of humility'. Charles de Gaulle set France beside the victorious Allies and renewed its historic grandeur by 'the strategy of will'. During the Cold War, Richard Nixon gave geostrategic advantage to the United States by 'the strategy of equilibrium'. After twenty-five years of conflict, Anwar Sadat brought a vision of peace to the Middle East by a 'strategy of transcendence'. Against the odds, Lee Kwan Yew created a powerhouse city-state, Singapore, by 'the strategy of excellence'. Although when she came to power Britain was known as 'the sick man of Europe', Margaret Thatcher renewed her country's morale and international position by 'the strategy of conviction,’ earning the moniker, Iron Lady. To each of these studies, Kissinger brings historical perception, public experience and - because he knew each of their subjects, and participated in many of the events he describes - personal knowledge. The book is enriched by insights and judgements such as only he could make, and concludes with his reflections on world order and the indispensability of leadership today. Kissinger’s writing is of so readable quality tinged with superior analysis, this volume deserves a place on the book shelf of every scholar of diplomacy and international relations.

[Sanford Chee]

Economist review
https://www.economist.com/culture/202...

Tommy Koh review
https://www.facebook.com/100006228882...

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Very impressed that Kissinger can still bring it after all these years. A great read that reviews six leaders with whom Kissinger worked in international diplomacy… and whom he admired for their leadership skills. His review of de Gaulle was very insightful as I knew little of him. His discussion of Nixon I found to be incredible, and he included an insight that Nixon often made exaggerated comments… and that his close staff who really knew him understood this and they would just ignore his comment (wonder if that led to Watergate?). The section on Sadat I found to be very enlightening due to my limited knowledge of Egypt of that timeframe due to my being very young. Very interesting to hear how Sadat when from attacking Israel to quickly moving towards the historic peace talks/agreement with them. It’s always great to hear of the inside story of such historic events. Lastly, the discussion of Margaret Thatcher was great especially as I remembered the challenges of the 1980s (Falkland Islands, Northern Ireland, etc). The book really made me appreciate again how great her leadership of Great Britain was during those times. One final great insight Kissinger provided in the text was that “deterrence is always cheaper than war.” Wow. So awesome and so true! Can’t imagine the total cost to the U.S. of our support to the 2022 operations in Ukraine. Bottom line is that this is a must-read for those desiring to learn about leadership and/or history.

[Dzana Pasic · Rating 2 out of 5]

I admire the eloquence, education, and strategic thinking of the older generation—qualities that seem rare today in a world driven by digitalization, quick profits, and shallow knowledge. While I appreciated the elegance of the writing, I was terrified by the mindset of this brilliant man who stood on the wrong side of history. Had he been open to learning from the systems he opposed, he could have saved millions of lives lost to his rigid belief in "realist" principles, ignoring the many alternatives that existed.

Most of the time, this book felt like a celebration of imperialism and anti-humanist values.
And it’s less about leadership and more about the biographies of controversial figures Kissinger admired, largely overlooking the devastating consequences of their actions.

[Ben · Rating 3 out of 5]

Where Kissinger Shines

This was an okay book. I learned some interesting leadership facts.

I have been on a leadership journey lately, and this was a good addition.
Kissinger seems to shine when writing about other leaders...
I do have to say, though... In the final chapter, Kissenger re-kindles his tone-deaf view of some of the major world power relations and really seems to not see the full picture.
Kissinger's true motives seems to shine through.

Take it with what you will, but I have seen the impact of Kissinger's work before - so I am glad that he is writing about other leaders and not recommending his own paths.

I wouldn't recommend this.

3.0/5

[Pedro Nuno Ferreira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caeteris Paribus, you can also learn by reading. I just finished reading the book "Leadership: Six Studies in World Strategy" by Henry Kissinger, New York, 2022, Penguin Press, Portuguese edition, “Liderança: Seis Estudos Sobre Estratégia Mundial”, Lisboa, 2023, Publicações Dom Quixote.

Leadership has two epitomes or simplifications, the leader can be a statesman or a prophet, the great leaders, unlikely or not, usually have both.

This leadership treatise analyses and teaches us to include in our leadership mission the examples of six great world leaders: German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, French President Charles De Gaulle, US President Richard Nixon, Egyptian President Anwar Sadate, Singaporean Founder and Prime Minister Lee Kwan Yew and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

All led their countries in difficult situations, with some unlikely to do so and with low expectations of their performance. All surprised and led their countries and peoples to much better levels of motivation and future than they had before them.

Two left on their own feet, two were 'deposed' by their own and one was assassinated.

Kissinger met with all of them, so the book is full of strategically "spicy" personal details and he has not "forgiven" them any sin or virtue, and from the top of his 100 years he gives us a perspective of what an effective and strategic leader should be:

"Great leadership results from the collision of the intangible and the malleable, of what is a given and what is aimed for. There always remains scope for individual endeavour - for deepening historical knowledge, refining strategies, and honing character. The Stoic philosopher Epictetus wrote long ago: "We cannot choose our external circumstances, but we can always choose how to react to them". It is up to leaders to guide that choice and inspire their people (teams and organisations) in its execution."

Very good reading. I recommend it to all my friends who are or aspire to be in leadership positions in their organisations.

The Portuguese translation, proofreading and editing are frankly poor: spelling mistakes, typos, names and dates changed. Kissinger, this excellent book and we readers deserve more care from its Portuguese editor.

Caeteris Paribus, também se aprende lendo. Acabei de lêr o livro “Liderança: Seis Estudos sobre estratégia mundial” de Henry Kissinger, New York, 2022, Penguin Press, edição portuguesa, Lisboa, 2023, Publicações Dom Quixote.

A liderança tem dois epítomes ou simplificações, o líder pode ser um estadista ou um profeta, os grande líderes, improváveis ou não, costumam ter os dois.

Este tratado de liderança analisa e ensina a que incluamos na nossa missão de líderes os exemplos de seis grandes líderes mundiais: o Chanceler Alemão Konrad Adenauer, o Presidente Francês Charles De Gaulle, o Presidente Norte Americano Richard Nixon, o Presidente Egípcio Anwar Sadate, O Fundador e Primeiro Ministro de Singapura Lee Kwan Yew e a Primeira Ministra Britânica Margaret Thatcher.

Todos lideraram os seus países em situações difíceis, com alguma improbabilidade de o fazerem e com baixas expectativas sobre o seu desempenho. Todos surpreenderam e levaram os seus países e povos a níveis de motivação e futuro muito melhores do que os que tinham antes deles.

Dois sairam pelo seu pé, dois foram “depostos” pelos seus e um foi assassinado.

Kissinger conviveu com todos, o livro está por isso recheado de pormenores pessoais estrategicamente “picantes” e não lhes “perdoou” nem nenhum pecado nem nenhuma virtude, e do alto dos seus 100 anos dá-nos uma perspectiva do que deve ser um líder eficaz e estratégico:

“A grande liderança resulta da colisão do intangível e do maleável, daquilo que é um dado e daquilo que se almeja. Resta sempre campo de ação para o esforço individual - para aprofundar o conhecimento histórico, afinar as estratégias, e aperfeiçoar o carácter. O filósofo estoico Epicteto escreveu há muito tempo: «Não podemos escolher as nossas circunstâncias externas, mas podemos sempre escolher como reagir a elas». Cabe aos líderes guiar essa escolha e inspirar o respetivo povo (equipas e organizações) na sua execução.”

Muito boa leitura. Recomendo a leitura todos os meus amigos que desempenham ou aspiram a desempenhar posições de liderança nas suas organizações.

A tradução, revisão de texto e edição para português são francamente más: erros ortográficos, gralhas, nomes e datas trocadas. Kissinger, este excelente livro e nós leitores merecíamos mais cuidado da parte do seu editor português.

[Sam Padilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kissinger passed away while I was working through the latter third of the book. His passing at the very ripe age of 100 struck me as a symbolic passing of the baton of leadership and world order to younger generations. His life and actions - controversial as they were - illustrate his involvement, in one way or another, in every major geopolitical event of the second half of the 20th century.

In many ways, this book is far more of a recollection of those events analyzed through the lenses and key traits of six 20th century leaders: Konrad Adenauer (German Chancellor after WWII) as the example of humble leadership, Charles de Gaulle (French President after WWII) as the example of willful leadership, Richard Nixon (37th U.S. President) as the example of equilibrated leadership, Anwar Sadat (Egyptian President in the 70s) as the example of transcendental leadership, Lee Kuan Yew (First Prime Minister of Singapore) as the example of excellence-based leadership, and Margaret Thatcher (British Prime Minister in the 80s) as an example of determined leadership. All influenced and outlived by Kissinger.

The point tho is that this book is not a discourse on leadership. It is a book on history and geopolitics. The lessons in leadership are hidden in between the lines and scantly provided directly by the author - this is, in fact, the only reason why I’m giving it 4 stars as opposed to 5.

As a geopolitical book, this is fantastic. And timely. As I said at the beginning of this review, his passing represents a changing guard in leadership. The “younger generations” that are scantly mentioned throughout the book - those who were going to have to fix climate change or find peaceful coexistence with China as a new world power - are here and are taking over the role of builders of the new world order.

Understanding the trajectory that brought us here and the leaders whose decisions we now bare the consequences is essential for us to replicate their success and circumvent their shortcomings. Any aspiring leader in the 21st century - in business or in politics - would be wise to read this book and, generally, to read more history.

The book ends with words of warning and, in a way, with a gloom view for the future. Kissinger shares his lamentations for the loss of importance of history and philosophy as the cornerstone of humanitarian education. He warns about the changing forms in media and information dissemination, that are plunging us into a polarized, emotional, and shallow political reality. Lastly, he raises the importance of good leadership now more than ever in the face of revolutionary technology.

Under the trying circumstances that approach, good leadership is more important than ever. And books like this will play the role of stewards, transferring the wisdom of previous generations of leaders to us.

[Adam Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good book if you want to learn about recent history. Particularly enjoyed the sections on Thatcher and other details on the age of decolonisation - something most relevant for Britons.

A little dense and repetitive at times, especially the stuff on Nixon. It seems that Kissinger does a very good job of not mentioning the bad things that the world leaders have done, and have been widely criticised. A good reminder that you should always keep in mind who is writing, and the biases that they may have.

Nonetheless, very interesting and informative!

[Ady ZYN · Rating 5 out of 5]

Este o altă carte ce te face să privești în profunzimea unor lucruri pe care le folosești cu convingere, dar neînelegându-le resorturile lor ascunse. Arta conducerii societății pare a fi de la sine înțeleasă. Ce este în spatele ei, ce necesită ea pentru a produce rezultate pozitive necesită o analiză a faptelor istorice. Prin prisma acestor fapte, Kissinger descrie caracteristicile celor care conduc societatea dinspre trecut spre viitor în virtutea adeziunii populare, cu acordul majorității, nu în ciuda ei, mai ales în perioadele cele mai grele, atunci când transformările cer o analiză obiectivă a trecutului, a prezentului și necesită soluții pentru viitor. Atunci, liderul trebuie să dea dovadă de curaj și caracter, „curajul de a alege o direcție dintre opțiunile complexe și dificile; și puterea de caracter pentru a susține o direcție de acțiune ale cărei beneficii și pericole pot fi întrezărite doar parțial în momentul alegerii. Curajul solicită virtutea în momentul deciziei; caracterul sporește credința față de valori pe o perioadă îndelungată”.

„Strategia” este un termen care reprezintă concluzia la care un lider ajunge într-un moment dificil, când toate în jurul lui se desfășoară repede și constrângerile care se răsfrâng asupra lui necesită flexibilitate în gândire și o intuiție mult dezvoltată. Un lider nu funcționează într-un mediu izolat, ci unul concurențial, cu acțiuni în plină desfășurare, realizate de alți agenți, care-i pun la dispoziție lui un mediu mereu în schimbare, cu multe incertitudini stimulând permanent un răspuns de adaptare; și totodată liderul nu este izolat nici de propriul lui sistem de valori care se întrepătrund cu ale epocii sale și ale grupului din care face parte.

Pe parcursul a șase capitole, Kissinger descriere șase personalități postbelice care au influențat în primul rând istoria popoarelor lor, dar și a regiunilor mai îndepărtate sau apropiate. Șase tipologii în jurul cărora fiecare a dezvoltat propria strategie de dezvoltare a țării lor în condițiile cele mai neprielnice. Reușita lor este un amalgam de însușiri din care una a ieșit în evidență și a stat la baza întregii construcții.

Urmele pe care ei le-au lăsat în istorie sunt lecții care ar trebui însușite de fiecare urmaș al lor pe parcursul unui proces contemplativ profund. Orice lider de azi ar trebui să reflecteze asupra gândirii și împrejurărilor istorice ale acestor personalități care au reușit chiar dacă au trecut în registru și neîmpliniri. Avem de a face cu oameni, nu cu ființe supranaturale. Provocările politice și economice nu s-au sfârșit odată cu acești oameni, ci continuă să exercite forțe nebănuite asupra oricărei orânduiri umane, iar strategiile de azi trebuie să se orienteze în continuare pentru bunăstare unui număr cât mai mare de cetățeni după cum sugera Lee Kwan Yew, fondatorul statului Singapore, într-un discurs din 1981, de 1 mai: "Fiecare guvern rațional își dorește bunăstarea și progresul pentru cel mai mare număr de cetățeni." (Cel puțin, lecția oferită de Lee Kwan Yew, ar trebui studiată de orice guvern, mai ales dintr-o țară emergentă cum e România. Pragmatismul său și criteriile sale meritocrate, de abolire a corupției și mediocrității au reușit pe parcursul unei generații să creeze dintr-o insulă săracă și subordonată Angliei, o putere economică a cărei evoluție a fost luată etalon și de însăși China.)

Personajele urmărite în monografie sunt Konrad Adenauer, Charles de Gaulle, Richard Nixon, Anwar Sadat, Lee Kwan Yew și Margaret Thatcher. Autorul i-a cunoscut personal, din postura de secretar de stat american, a colaborat mai mult sau mai puțin cu ei, le-a cunoscut aspirațiile și temperamentele.

Pe parcursul lecturii, uneori ai impresia că citești un roman; se simte o căldură a scriiturii datorată, poate, și apropierii dintre autor și personalitatea descrisă. Alteori te pierzi într-un hățiș tehnic și subtil al negocierilor; relevarea importanței momentului. Cartea e plăcută pentru cei interesați de istorie și politică diplomatică. Merită un loc demn în bibliotecă întrucât nu-și pierde valabilitatea în timp. Povestea poate fi repovestită la nesfârșit fără a-și pierde semnificația.

Post scriptum. Încercând să trec prin filtrul lui Kissinger politicienii români din ultimii 30 de ani, nu pot să nu remarc că nu sunt decât niște paparude triste. Situația prin care a trecut țara în această perioadă necesita imperios personalități cel puțin factura celor prezentate de autor, în schimb am avut parte exact de invers, anti-personalități. Nicio caracteristică pozitivă remarcabilă și remarcată la personajele cărții nu s-a regăsit, și nu se regăsește încă la niciun specimen politic român. Tocmai de aceea, cartea poate servi repere de urmat a unei noi generații de lideri politici români. Expunerea lui Kissinger nu este un rețetar. Dar pune la dispoziție niște modele comportamentale ale unor oameni aflați în anumite împrejurări istorice, forțați să adopte o poziție în detrimentul alteia conform construcției lor, caracterului fiecăruia construit în sânul societății proprii, a culturii sale unice. Kissinger expune experiența sa în contactul cu leadershipul de cel mai înalt rang. Este doar un prim pas pentru a alcătui un politician nou. Următorul pas nu este decât folosirea abilităților unice fiecăruia în realizarea unui scop benefic, pentru a deveni un astfel de model.

[Eddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insightful accounts of Kissinger’s experience working with the six leaders. A set of distinct qualities can be observed in each leader (it’s a fun read bcuz he doesn’t explicitly point out the qualities of each one until the very end of the book and u get to figure out whichever qualities they embodied the most)

[anet · Rating 5 out of 5]

takovej peknej tlustsi ikdyz letmo povrchovej nahled do zivota velikych osobnosti, jejich zjeveni a vybudovani neceho, co pretrvava dodnes, povalecnym usporadani, mentality a ekonomiky a mezinarodnich vztahu ruznych zemi a narodu, akce a reakce, libi se mi, ze vsechny ty osobnosti osobne znal, zajimavy cteni takove nedavne doby

[Pier Giuseppe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sei personalità che hanno avuto un impatto rilevante sulla storia del XX secolo. Significativa, forse non molto nota, quella di Lee Kuan Yew, primo ministro di Singapore, artefice dello sviluppo della città-stato.

[Fatima Irfan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bought this book bc i felt like i wanted to be more in my element with ir in case i forget about it when i graduate but this book did not succeed with helping me achieve this. Something about non fiction just puts me to sleep

[Daniel Kari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kissinger is apparently brilliant and the final chapter is particularly helpful in understanding present challenges for political leaders.

[Eskild Walnum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although considered a controversial man, Kissinger has written an inspiring book about a handful of remarkable and influential political leaders. Especially fruitful are those stories about the leaders who rebuilt their nations after major wars, Adenauer, De Gaulle… Pay attention to their long term plans and policies, their lack of populist manoeuvres, and humbleness in Adenauer’s case

[Rebuma Dejene · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book by one of the most strategic minds of the last six decades is an illuminating read on the exercise of strategy, leadership and decision making. As Kissinger provides a detailed and compelling analysis of theoretical insights on the art and science of leadership, he focuses the lives and stories of six leaders he interacted with in his lifetime.
As a starting point, this is obviously not a book for those committed to the unceasing criticism of Kissinger during his tenure. This is rather a book for those interested in the complexities of the real world and its consequences. He analyzes the thinking, characters, and strategies of six leaders of different parts of the world in their own historical contexts. He brings together six leaders of post-WWII period. Adenauer of Germany, de Gaulle of France, Nixon of America, Sadat of Egypt, Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore and Thatcher of Britain. Interestingly, all of them are leaders of the post-cold war period. He provides an important geopolitical analysis of the history, politics, political developments and economic determinants that shaped their transformation and trajectory.
One can have its legitimate differences and objections to the policy choices and decisions of particular leaders including their legacy on the sustainability of peace, inequality, political rights, and a multitude of other issues. However, there is no doubt about the consequential nature of their leadership and strategy. One of the most transformative geopolitical projects of the last eight decades in the world is the transformation of Franco-German relationships from a state of antagonism and rivalry into a stable relationship. This book provides a critical insight into the architects of this regional order that brought a new era of cooperation and prosperity despite its long historical baggage and trappings. In Kissinger’s analysis, Konrad Adenauer accepted the new challenge of post-Hitler Germany with a profound sense of humility in the aftermath of an unconditional surrender and devastation. Adenauer showed the the strength of character and resilience to chart a new path forward that led a transformative success for his country. The sheer belief and determination of de Gaulle in transforming a war devastated country into a formidable nation is equally inspiring and powerful. The book is also a close examination of how Charles de Gaulle played a decisive role in resolving the Algerian War and other anti-colonial wars that brought catastrophic humanitarian consequences and geopolitical quagmires.
On the regional order in the greater Middle East, he singles out Anwar Sadat for bringing a complete departure with the past and the trajectory of the Egyptian state through his strategic vision of peace and alliance. He analyzes Sadat through the complex history of Egypt including its geopolitical environment, chaotic Cold War politics, the struggle for independence, prosperity and peace. With regard to the peace process in the region, this is still a largely traumatic and tragic history that continues to bring the perennial quest for peace, dignity and justice to the fore.
And given the historic nature of the rapprochement with China and the strategic arms limitations negotiations with the Soviet Union at the height of the cold war that led to a new of a period of “détente”, Kissinger provides an insider account of the leadership and strategy of Nixon including his role in ending the Vietnam war. Predictably, he is more interested in the foreign policy credentials of Nixon than the domestic upheaval of the Watergate scandal that ended his presidency.
On Thatcher, Kissinger gives an account of a revolutionary leader that navigated the economic stagnation and global decline of Britain without yielding to the temptation of the spirit of defeatism and cynicism that was the undercurrent of the age. While some were describing Britain as “the sick man of Europe", he analyzes her strong and deep philosophical convictions on the role of the state, leadership, free enterprises, private sector, freedom, competition and sovereignty that changed the direction of the country. As people continue to debate the legacy of Thatcherism and neoliberalism, her personal qualities and virtues like formidable conviction, determination, strategic courage, clarity of thought and purpose in the face of huge internal crises and external chaos is evident.
From Asia, he chose Lee. And this isn’t surprising. The story of Singapore is one the greatest political experiments of the last hundred years that should inspire everyone. A large part of the analysis on Lee Kuan Yew is less about the economic success story of Singapore and more about his views and thinking on nation building, international affairs and geopolitics. Lee Kuan Yew’s own book: From Third World to First: The Singapore Story: 1965-2000 rather offers a comprehensive and accessible history on the political economy, state bureaucracy, economic development and a new cultural revolution of the state. On the chapter on Lee Kuan Yew, he briefly touches upon on Deng Xiaoping. I believe this is a big void.
But Deng Xiaoping as the general architect of the successful and miraculous economic transformation of China should be deeply and seriously studied and respected. I understand there might be political and ideological reasons behind his decision. However, China's reform and opening-up policy under Deng from absolute poverty to high income status since World War II is one of the greatest lessons and comebacks in political economy, economic development and broader world history.
One of the philosophical driving forces of the book is that any successful strategic analysis should be divorced from either ideological dogmas or emotional attachments. The other consistent pillar of Kissinger’s analysis in this book and other works is the inherent danger of the excesses of and hubris in ideological thinking. Flexibility and pragmatism combined with the qualities of excellence is the overriding theme of all the six studies in strategy. The introduction and conclusion chapters on leadership, statecraft and statesmanship is also extremely insightful, astute and incisive. Probably, one of the best essays on the nexus between the nature of leadership and strategic thinking. It is also interesting that the author is particularly against the vices of mediocrity, complacency, excessive ambition, short-termism and overreaches in state capacity as sources of political decay and collapse. He highly praises the virtues of courage, character, conviction, transcendence and excellence especially during periods of transition and crisis.
The author also gives crucial emphasis on how these leaders navigated major crises and turbulence of their time in their own historical and cultural contexts. Clearly, he is not writing as a professional historian or biographer. While widely detailed and deeply informed, he writes with a sense of admiration and veneration. My critical thought and concern throughout reading this book is the fact that the writing often oscillates between hagiography and a critical portrayal which reveals both their strengths and flaws. Ultimately, this is a very good read.