Dean Rusk Quotes

A collection of quotes by Dean Rusk.

Dean Rusk (1909-1994) was an American government official and diplomat who served as the United States Secretary of State from 1961 to 1969 under Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson. Born in Cherokee County, Georgia, Rusk obtained his undergraduate and law degrees from Davidson College and the University of California, respectively.

Rusk began his career in public service in the State Department during World War II, where he worked on war plans and post-war settlement issues. He played a key role in the creation of the United Nations and later served as an advisor to General Douglas MacArthur during the Korean War.

As Secretary of State, Rusk faced several significant challenges, including the Cuban Missile Crisis, the escalation of the Vietnam War, and intense Cold War tensions. He advocated for the policy of containment and worked towards arms control agreements with the Soviet Union, while also supporting military interventions and aid to combat communist threats.

Rusk's tenure as Secretary of State was marked by his loyalty to the presidents he served and his cautious approach to international relations. However, he faced criticism for his handling of the Vietnam War, with some arguing that his role in shaping policy contributed to prolonged U.S. involvement.

After leaving the State Department in 1969, Rusk joined the faculty of the University of Georgia and remained active in public service. He later published an autobiography, "As I Saw It," offering his perspective on the major events of his time. Dean Rusk passed away in 1994 at the age of 85.