Module 7 Document

Next

Module 7 Document

Next

Colin Powell was a highly respected American military leader and statesman who played a significant role in U.S. and world history. He was the first African American to serve as the U.S. Secretary of State (2001-2005) under President George W. Bush, where he was instrumental in shaping foreign policy, particularly during the early years of the War on Terror. Before that, he had a distinguished military career, rising to the rank of four-star general and serving as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (1989-1993), where he oversaw U.S. military operations during the Gulf War. Powell was known for his leadership, diplomacy, and efforts to build international coalitions, making him a key figure in late 20th and early 21st-century global affairs. Click Next to read an excerpt from Colin Powell.

excerpt from OSDE

click to read a summary

Why is Colin Powell saying this? Powell is providing an account of the Persian Gulf War, emphasizing that the military operation successfully achieved its goals without exceeding its UN mandate. He wants to highlight the careful decision-making process and the restraint shown by the U.S. government and military leadership. What was his purpose? His purpose was to document and justify the military and political decisions made during the war, particularly the choice to stop offensive operations after Kuwait was liberated. He reinforces the idea that the U.S. acted responsibly and within its authorized limits. Is he biased? While Powell presents a factual account, his perspective is influenced by his role as a U.S. military leader. He frames the U.S. actions in a positive light, emphasizing moral legitimacy and strategic success. However, he does not acknowledge potential criticisms, such as the decision to leave Saddam Hussein in power, which some believed led to future conflicts.

When you read the passage, think about these questions: Why is Colin Powell saying it? What was his purpose? Is he biased?

In this excerpt, General Colin Powell describes the conclusion of the Persian Gulf War in 1991. He explains that the U.S. and its allies had a clear mission, authorized by the United Nations, to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation, and once that objective was achieved, President George H.W. Bush made the decision to suspend hostilities. Powell emphasizes that the U.S. held the "moral high ground" and that the war was concluded in accordance with the original military goals.

Bias is a tendency to favor or support a particular perspective, opinion, or group, often in a way that is unfair or one-sided. It can be influenced by personal experiences, cultural background, or political beliefs and may lead to selective presentation of facts or viewpoints. Bias can appear in writing, speech, media, and decision-making, sometimes consciously and sometimes unconsciously.