Introduction: The Myth vs. Reality of Dick Cheney
As tributes pour in for former Vice President Dick Cheney, media and political elites are glossing over his brutal legacy. Behind the statesman facade lies a record of deception, war crimes, and unchecked power—one that demands scrutiny, not celebration.
The Iraq War: A Legacy Built on Lies
Cheney’s most infamous act was spearheading the Iraq War under false pretenses. As George W. Bush’s VP, he:
– Pushed debunked claims about Saddam Hussein’s WMDs.
– Silenced intelligence dissenters.
– Ignited a war killing 4,500 U.S. troops and over a million Iraqis.
Even after no WMDs were found, Cheney refused accountability, doubling down on the war’s “necessity.” The fallout—regional destabilization and the rise of ISIS—remains his grim hallmark.
Torture and the Assault on Democracy
Cheney didn’t just back the Iraq War; he championed war crimes:
– Approved torture (waterboarding, sleep deprivation) despite violating international law.
– Expanded warrantless surveillance of Americans.
– Drove the GOP’s shift toward authoritarian executive power.
His tactics eroded U.S. moral authority and set precedents exploited by later administrations.
Halliburton and the Corruption of Power
Long before the White House, Cheney profited from the military-industrial complex:
– As Halliburton CEO, he secured $39B in Iraq contracts for subsidiary KBR.
– Later, as VP, he pushed policies benefiting former corporate allies.
– His net worth ballooned while taxpayers funded his wars.
Why Rewriting History Is Dangerous
Glowing eulogies risk normalizing Cheney’s crimes:
– They excuse war-mongering and torture as “patriotism.”
– They ignore how his anti-democratic policies paved the way for figures like Trump.
– They absolve elites who profit from suffering.
For India and the world, Cheney’s legacy is a warning: unchecked power, nationalism, and cronyism enable atrocities.
Conclusion: Reject the Hagiography
Dick Cheney’s death shouldn’t whitewash his harm. Honest remembrance—not blind praise—is the only way to prevent repeating his mistakes.
— NextMinuteNews
