ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the change of circumstances, thinking and beliefs that led America to enter into a highly destructive war in Iraq in 2003 that has had devastating consequences for the region and increased the threat of terrorism. It explains the ideas that underpinned the US approach to the ‘War on Terror’ and the decision to invade Iraq. The chapter argues that Bush took up a neoconservative approach to the ‘War on Terror’ that was ideologically hubristic and often untethered from the facts on the ground. It shows that these neoconservatives had important positions in the Bush administration from its outset and were well-placed to put their case for removing Saddam Hussein, with or without the support of America’s traditional allies. In the wake of the 9/11 attacks a strident American nationalism was animated by President George W. Bush as he called for revenge.
