The Degree of Machiavellianism of Henry Kissinger in the Framework of the Interpretation of Key Aspects of Richelieu's Foreign Policy Strategy

Abstract

The article is devoted to the key aspects of Richelieu's foreign policy strategy within the framework of Henry Kissinger's interpretation. The author states the topical nature of this issue since the historical heritage of Richelieu is one of those components that are among the most significant elements of the concept of "world order" in its historical interpretation. The author emphasizes that Kissinger's assessments are stable and consistent. Therefore, for example, in an interview in the 70s of the XX century, he distanced himself from the influence of Machiavelli's ideas on his scientific concepts. Then, in his scientific works of the later period, primarily in «Diplomacy» and «World Order», he systematized in a more precise form his own interpretation of Richelieu's foreign policy legacy, tying his assessments to the concept of a "long-term strategic concept", and not in the spirit of Machiavelli to the concept "manipulation of political power". The author of the article draws attention to the correctness of the key aspects of Kissinger's interpretation, and the stability of his assessments, reflecting the conceptual integrity of the author's concept of the American researcher in this matter.