RP
Richard Perle
59quotes
Richard Perle
Biography of a Prominent American Neoconservative Strategist
Full Name and Common Aliases
Richard Norman Perle was born on June 1, 1941.
Birth and Death Dates
June 1, 1941 (birth date) - current (no known death date)
Nationality and Profession(s)
American; former member of the United States Congress, Defense Policy Board Advisory Committee chairman, and a prominent neoconservative strategist
Early Life and Background
Richard Perle was born in New York City to a family of Jewish descent. His father, Arnold Perle, served as a lieutenant in the US Army during World War II. Perle's early life was marked by his interest in politics and international relations, which would eventually become the focus of his career.
Major Accomplishments
Perle's most notable achievement is his role in shaping America's foreign policy strategy, particularly regarding the Middle East. He served as a key advisor to several US administrations, including that of President Ronald Reagan. As a member of the Defense Policy Board Advisory Committee (DPBAC), he played a crucial part in drafting policy and providing strategic guidance on national security issues.
Notable Works or Actions
Perle was instrumental in advocating for a strong military presence in the Middle East, which led to his involvement in promoting support for Israel. He has been an outspoken critic of appeasement policies towards countries like Iran and North Korea. As chairman of the DPBAC, Perle played a key role in shaping America's response to the 1990-91 Gulf War.
Impact and Legacy
Perle's impact on American foreign policy is undeniable. His advocacy for military action in Iraq, though criticized by many, reflects his conviction that strong national security measures are necessary to protect US interests. His unwavering support for Israel has also been a subject of controversy but underscores his commitment to the country.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Richard Perle is widely quoted and remembered due to his unwavering stance on key international issues, particularly those related to national security and Middle Eastern politics. His influence extends beyond the confines of government circles; he has appeared in various media outlets to share his insights on global events.
Quotes by Richard Perle
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When you gaze into souls, it’s something you should update periodically, because souls can change.
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George Tenet has been the director of central intelligence since 1997, time enough to have changed the Agency’s culture. He has failed. He should go.
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I think we have an administration today that is dysfunctional. And if it can’t get itself together to organize a serious program for finding nuclear material on its way to the United States, then it ought to be replaced by an administration that can.
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There is no doubt that, with the exception of a very small number of people close to a vicious regime, the people of Iraq have been liberated and they understand that they’ve been liberated.
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Right now, American law bars the admission of aliens suspected of terrorist activity – but not of terrorist sympathies.
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The lax multiculturalism that urges Americans to accept the unacceptable from their fellow citizens is one of this nation’s greatest vulnerabilities in the war on terror.
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I think there is a potential civic culture in Arab countries that can lead to democratic institutions and I think Iraq is probably the best place to put that proposition to the test Well, you’re going to find a disproportionate number of Jews in any sort of intellectual undertaking.
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I think we have an administration today that is dysfunctional. And if it can't get itself together to organize a serious program for finding nuclear material on its way to the United States, then it ought to be replaced by an administration that can.
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Support for Saddam, including within his military organization, will collapse after the first whiff of gunpowder.
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Even now, the irony that so non-intellectual a man should choose to engage the Soviet Union on the battlefield of ideas has eluded most commentators and historians.
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