In recent years, America has said goodbye to some of its most important leaders. As time marches on, we continue to lose generations of great Americans.

Very rarely have we seen future leaders able to fill the shoes of former presidents, congressmen, or ambassadors.

This week, America said goodbye to a literal legend. The man’s work was monumental in the post-WWII world. And in his passing, Americans remember him.

From NBC News:
Henry Kissinger, the toweringly influential former secretary of state who earned a reputation as a sagacious diplomat… died Wednesday…

He was 100…

Kissinger, a Jewish refugee from Nazi Germany, reached the pinnacle of the American political establishment and in turn became an unlikely household name. He was secretary of state and national security adviser under two Republican presidents, Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, and advised powerful leaders in both American political parties for decades.

Few Americans don’t recognize the name Henry Kissinger. The American leader helped shape U.S. policy as secretary of state for two presidents. Despite criticisms from Democrats, Kissinger cemented his role as a force for good in the country.

Kissinger was a refugee from Nazi Germany. Yet he rose within American government to become a towering figure in international relations, shaping such policy for decades. He was the man who helped normalize relations with China in the 1970s and later the Soviet Union.

The man won a Nobel Peace Prize for negotiating the end of the Vietnam War.

According to his firm, Kissinger died at his home in Connecticut. Despite lacking Hollywood looks, he reportedly dated a number of actresses before his second marriage, including Jill St. John, Shirley MacLaine, Marlo Thomas, Candice Bergen, and Liv Ullman.

Even after leaving his roles in government, Kissinger continued to influence groups around the world. He worked in academia for decades, teaching the next generations of leaders. He was frequently invited to meet with world leaders and speak to thousands.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy, and two children, David and Elizabeth, from his first marriage.

Key Takeaways:

• American statesman Henry Kissinger died at his home at the age of 100.
• Kissinger is best known for his role as Secretary of State during the 60s and 70s.
• Kissinger negotiated the end of the Vietnam War, established relations with China, and worked with the Soviet Union.

Source: NBC News