In a speech to Congress and the American people on September 11, 1990, President George Bush outlined the goals his government was pursuing through military intervention in the Middle East. He had in previous statements put forth four goals, including an immediate, unconditional and complete withdrawal of Iraqi forces from Kuwait; the restoration of the Emir of Kuwait to his throne;a permanent commitment to the security and stability of the Persian gulf; and protection of American citizens living abroad. On September 11, President Bush added a fifth objective. He said, and I quote: "Out of these troubled times, our fifth objective - a new world order - can emerge...We are now in sight of a United Nations that performs as envisioned by its founders."

In a speech to Congress and the American people on September 11, 1990, President George Bush outlined the goals his government was pursuing through military intervention in the Middle East. He had in previous statements put forth four goals, including an immediate, unconditional and complete withdrawal of Iraqi forces from Kuwait; the restoration of the Emir of Kuwait to his throne;a permanent commitment to the security and stability of the Persian gulf; and protection of American citizens living abroad.



On September 11, President Bush added a fifth objective. He said, and I quote:



"Out of these troubled times, our fifth objective - a new world order - can emerge...We are now in sight of a United Nations that performs as envisioned by its founders."



On October 1, 1990, President Bush told the General Assembly of the United Nations, again I quote:



"The United Nations can help bring about a new day...a new world order, and a long era of peace."



One is tempted to downplay the rhetorical flourishes of George Bush. This is, after all, the same man who in 1988 told us to read his lips, and promised "No New Taxes." In looking at George Bush's political career from the early 1960's to the present, it might charitably be said that he does not have a principle to his name. Anyway, George Bush is now out of office office, repudiated by 63% of the voters in the last election.



Many of us would probably agree that no politician more richly deserved retirement that George Bush. Even millions who voted Republican to keep Bill Clinton out of the White House would be inclined to share such a sentiment. But a few facts about the winners might cause us to hold down our celebration.