Kenneth Bacon
Kenneth Bacon: A Life Dedicated to Journalism and Diplomacy
Full Name and Common Aliases
Kenneth William Bacon was a renowned American journalist and diplomat who served as the Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs from 1994 to 1997.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on August 25, 1948, in New York City, Kenneth Bacon passed away on April 1, 2005, at the age of 56.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Bacon was an American citizen by birth, and his professional background spanned journalism, diplomacy, and public service. He worked as a journalist for over two decades before entering government service.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in New York City, Bacon developed a strong interest in international affairs and journalism at a young age. His parents, both of whom were academics, encouraged his curiosity about global events and politics. Bacon attended Harvard University, where he studied history and graduated magna cum laude in 1970.
Major Accomplishments
Bacon's career was marked by several significant achievements:
As a journalist, he covered key international events, including the fall of Saigon and the Iran hostage crisis.
He served as the Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs from 1994 to 1997, where he played a crucial role in shaping U.S. foreign policy and public diplomacy.
Bacon was also a respected author and commentator on international affairs, publishing numerous articles and essays in leading publications.Notable Works or Actions
Bacon's notable works include:
"Foreign Policy Begins at Home: The Case for the Repatriation of Power from the United Nations" (2003)
He wrote extensively on U.S. foreign policy, international relations, and global security issues.
Bacon was a vocal advocate for greater transparency and accountability in government decision-making.
Impact and Legacy
Kenneth Bacon's impact on international affairs and journalism is multifaceted:
As a journalist, he provided critical coverage of key events, shedding light on complex issues and holding those in power accountable.
In his role as Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs, Bacon helped shape U.S. foreign policy and promote greater understanding between nations.
His legacy extends beyond his own career, inspiring future generations of journalists, diplomats, and public servants.Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Kenneth Bacon is widely quoted and remembered due to his:
Unique blend of journalistic expertise and diplomatic experience, which allowed him to navigate the complexities of international affairs with unparalleled insight.
Commitment to transparency, accountability, and greater understanding between nations, which resonated with audiences worldwide.
Ability to distill complex issues into clear, compelling narratives that continue to inspire and inform readers today.
Quotes by Kenneth Bacon
The challenge of ending displacement is inseparable from the challenge of establishing and maintaining peace. When wars end, farmers return to their fields; children return to school; violence against women declines; trade and economic activity resume; medical and other services become more accessible, and the international focus changes from relief to development and self-sufficiency. All this makes new wars less likely. It is a virtuous cycle that deserves nurture and support.
The current level of violence is unacceptable, and we're trying to make that clear in all sorts of communications to Milosevic and to his army and his police forces.
A Greek government spokesman said he anticipated that they would be able to land soon and move through Greece to their posts.
The Iraqi planes when they saw they were engaged and being fired upon by the U.S. planes turned and beat a hasty retreat out of the no-fly zone.
I do not have verification that there were units or groups of the size that Newsday reports. But we do believe that there was some Russian participation.
The KLA (Kosovo Liberation Army) is responding, but it's basically trying to get out of the way, to retreat to the hills and preserve itself. The bulk of the fighting is at the instigation of the Yugoslav forces.
It's difficult to be completely clear about what happened, but it looks as if a bulldozer or other earth moving equipment has been run over where the original graves used to be.
Then the international community will have to decide what to do next, based on Milosevic's activities.
It may be that he (Hussein) is preparing to provoke another confrontation with the U.N.. These confrontations have been unsuccessful in the past, and I assume would be unsuccessful in the future as well.