Carter's hopes died when the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan and he ended up having to reverse policy and launch the military buildup that Reagan continued. Mr. Obama would be forced back into a war on terror if terrorist groups pull off enough damaging or frightening attacks to force this issue to the fore.

who grew up in several places in the South. In doing so he sometimes grossly understates the human devastation wrought by the United States. Via media is a Latin phrase meaning "the middle road" and is a philosophical maxim for life which advocates moderation in all thoughts and actions.

He is an honors graduate of Groton School and Yale where he received prizes for history and debate. who grew up in several places in the South. Foreign Policy at the Council on Foreign Relations.