Another August Crisis: Learning from Bush 41

Another August Crisis: Learning from Bush 41

August is when official Washington shuts down and heads off for vacation. Congressmen and senators travel to their districts to politick, especially in these even-numbered years, and presidents travel to their ranches or beach houses or, this year, to the Olympics.

But that wasn't the case during the administration of George H.W. Bush. In fact, it was during these dog days of summer that the elder Bush was busiest. The next president could learn a thing or two from the 41st -- about what to do and what not to do.

It's regrettable that Bush's presidency is usually mentioned in relation to -- and overshadowed by -- someone else. After all, he has been called Reagan's third term, Gorbachev's partner, Clinton's predecessor, W's father. But the elder Bush was much more than an adjunct to others. He navigated a critical turning point in world history, and in the 15 years since his departure, America has been reminded again and again of just how difficult it is to make and execute foreign policy.

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