George Tenet

Easton Press George Tenet books

At The Center of The Storm - signed first edition - 2007

George Tenet biography

George Tenet, born on January 5, 1953, in Flushing, Queens, New York, emerged as a central figure in shaping American intelligence and national security policy during a crucial period in history. His tenure as Director of Central Intelligence spanned the tumultuous years surrounding the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and the subsequent War on Terror, making him one of the most influential figures in the U.S. intelligence community. Tenet's journey into the world of intelligence began with his academic pursuits. He attended the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service in 1976 and later a Master of International Affairs in 1978. His education provided him with a solid foundation in international relations and set the stage for his distinguished career. After completing his studies, Tenet embarked on a career in government service, initially working as a legislative assistant in the Senate, where he gained valuable experience in the intricacies of policymaking and national security. In 1985, he joined the staff of the National Security Council, where he served as a Special Assistant to the President for Intelligence Programs under Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush.

Tenet's rise through the ranks of the intelligence community continued in the 1990s, culminating in his appointment as Director of Central Intelligence by President Bill Clinton in 1997. As Director, Tenet faced a series of daunting challenges, including the growing threat of terrorism, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and the increasingly complex landscape of global intelligence operations. However, it was the events of September 11, 2001, that would define Tenet's tenure as Director of Central Intelligence. In the aftermath of the attacks, Tenet played a central role in guiding the U.S. intelligence community's response, working tirelessly to prevent future attacks and track down those responsible for the atrocities. Despite facing criticism and controversy over the intelligence failures leading up to the September 11 attacks, as well as the flawed intelligence used to justify the invasion of Iraq in 2003, Tenet remained steadfast in his commitment to protecting the United States and upholding the principles of American democracy.

George Tenet resigned as Director of Central Intelligence in July 2004, after more than seven years at the helm. Despite the challenges and controversies he faced during his tenure, Tenet's leadership and dedication to duty earned him the respect and admiration of many within the intelligence community and beyond. His legacy serves as a testament to the critical importance of effective leadership and sound judgment in safeguarding the nation's security in an increasingly uncertain world.