Henry Kissinger, the man known as the most famous American diplomat, passed away in his Connecticut home on November 29th 2023 at the age of 100. Kissinger’s consulting firm announced his death, but did not give a cause. “Dr. Henry Kissinger, a respected American scholar and statesman, died today at his home in Connecticut,” read the statement. His life was one of great accomplishment and controversy, as he rose from humble beginnings to become a key figure in shaping American foreign policy during some of the most tumultuous times in history.

Henry Kissinger’s early life was marked by perseverance and determination. Born on May 27, 1923, in Germany, he experienced firsthand the rise of Nazi power and the atrocities of World War II. His Jewish heritage forced him and his family to flee to the United States in 1938, where they settled in New York City. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new country and language, Kissinger excelled academically and went on to attend Harvard University. It was during his time at Harvard that his passion for international relations and diplomacy took root. This early chapter in Kissinger’s life laid the foundation for his future successes and shaped his unwavering commitment to peace and diplomacy.