Main Page End of the Cold War Gulf War Economy Dissatisfaction and Discontent

On January 16, 1991, following expiration of a U.N. Security Council deadline, a U.S.-led coalition launched air attacks on Iraq and occupied Kuwait.  President Bush's speech from the Oval Office at 9:00 p.m. attracted one of the largest television audiences in U.S. history. 

"Just two hours ago allied air forces began an attack on military targets in Iraq and Kuwait.  These attacks continue as I speak.  Ground forces are not engaged.

"This conflict started August 2, when the dictator of Iraq invaded a small and helpless neighbor.  Kuwait, a member of the Arab League and a member of the United Nations, was crushed, its people brutalized.  Five months ago, Saddam Hussein started this cruel war against Kuwait; tonight, the battle has been joined..." (>)

Hostilities terminated at the end of February, but the residual glow of the Gulf War boosted President Bush's poll ratings throughout the first half of 1991.  Many commentators speculated that the President could not be beaten in 1992.  However, even during the period of his greatest popularity, there were signs of trouble for the President.