He was 42 years old when he overthrew the existing leader, Ahmed Hassan al-Bakr, and took over his seat in power. It took endless years of methodical planning to get to that point. It began with getting an education, attending three years of law school, gaining people’s trust by improving the infrastructure, helping the country’s economy grow at a rapid rate through oil money, and improving the education system along with the healthcare system. He was charming and charismatic, easy to trust and believe. He grew in stature and popularity amongst the citizens, gained the necessary power and force to achieve his goal, and in July of 1979, he overthrew the existing Iraqi leader and took over his position. Saddam Hussein had everyone’s support. No one knew any better until 1980 when he declared war on Iran and his true self began to emerge. Through his years of leadership, it’s been estimated that over 250,000 Iraqi citizens died at the hands of Saddam’s security service which earned him the title of “Butcher of Baghdad.” Although many attempted to overthrow him, all failed, including his first wife and one of his sons, Qusay, who attempted to poison him. This is just one of the many ways leadership changeover takes place, not only in Iraq, but in so many other countries.
Many people are suppressed and forced into submission which results in losing their voice and eventually, losing their human rights. However, here in America, we are presented with an opportunity to do something different, to contribute to something greater, and that is the right to vote. This is a privilege so many can only dream of and yet we take it for granted. You can imagine my surprise when I first came here to find out that leadership was appointed by the people vs. by force. What a freedom!
So go out there today and VOTE. Take advantage of the ability to have a voice. Don’t waste this privilege. Regardless of the outcome, know that you partook in something significant and you didn’t discard your right. Appreciate having a voice because so many others don’t.
I could not agree with you more. So many of us in this country take for granted the rights and the freedoms we do have. Yes, we are still a work in progress, but we have been blessed with a strong foundation to build upon and continue to build upon. Admittedly I do get frustrated with the slow moment of progress, but I remain hopeful. Well stated. I echo the charge to get out and VOTE, if you haven’t already.