Since its declaration of freedom in 1776, America has prided itself on the support of freedom for people both within its borders and for countries fighting against authoritarian governments. However, there have been multiple occasions where the US has gone against this ideal, going as far as to place authoritarians in power and supporting pre-existing ones. Many of these regimes came to power during the mid to late 20th century, mostly as a result of the Cold War and fear of the spread of Communism. This fear has caused our government to abandon its ideals against authoritarianism and support certain regimes and people on the principle that it would save the country from Communism.
Ngo Dình Diem, former president of the Republic of Vietnam from 1955-63, came to power through a rigged election and received US support for his non-communist views, being described to the American people as a savior for Vietnam. His rule, however, was filled with prejudice against the Buddhist majority, appointment of family members into positions of power, and censored, arrested, or brutally silenced opposition. This is also seen in Iran, when former shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi regained absolute power in a coup d’état, which was orchestrated by the CIA and MI6. Pahlavi’s reign introduced the “white revolution” which modernized Iran, however he also suppressed religion, employed the SAVAK to force down opposition, and forced modernization – going as far as to force people to wear western clothing.
For a majority of the Cold War, the Apartheid government of South Africa was supported by the US, viewing the government as an ally against the spread of Soviet influence throughout Africa. This government kept the white minority in power, creating laws and rules similar to America’s Jim Crow. The country’s opposition, the African National Congress (ANC), was viewed as a communist regime and the CIA helped put one of its members, Nelson Mandela, behind bars. During the Iran-Iraq War, the US provided intel and military support against Saddam Hussein to prevent Iranian victory. Hussein created a totalitarian regime with violent suppression and usage of chemical weapons both on the Iranian people – which the US was aware of – and his own; most notable during the Anfal campaign.
To the United States government, preservation of western democracies and prevention of communism – or the spread of the Islamic Revolution in the case of Iran-Iraq – is more important than the rights of the people. The only reason America draws back their support or stages coups to overthrow them is because the general public finds out and begins to speak out against it, forcing the government to step in and replace authoritarian leaders and regimes they caused in the first place.
Kyrie Jenkins
Staff Reporter
