Key Figures
Saddam Hussein, President of Iraq
Hussein's motives in taking over Kuwait received worldwide attention. He accused that country (and Saudi Arabia) of trying to keep crude oil prices low and collaborating with the West in secret deals. Not intimidated by the West and their leaders, he sent his massive army into the country, ignoring every warning that told him to pull out. That was a terrible decision, though, as his entire army was severely battered by coalition forces, both from the air and later on the ground. By the 28th of February, he had no choice but to accept the peace deal proposed by President Bush. This would not be the last the world would hear of Hussein, though...
General Colin Powell, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
As Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Powell presented to President Bush two plans of how to deal with the occupation of Kuwait by Saddam Hussein. He suggested to the President many of the plans that would turn out in the actual conflict, including the massive air-attack, followed by ground troops. Bush was hopeful that air power alone could weaken Hussein and his forces, but Powell did not agree, and recommended his plan for sending in ground troops afterwards. His strategies were essential and effective in bringing an end to the conflict.
President George H. W. Bush
President Bush was one of the most important figures during this conflict. He was the man who set the deadline for the pullout of Saddam Hussein's forces after they invaded and occupied Kuwait. As Commander-in-Chief, he ordered American troops into the country and Iraq after Hussein ignored these warnings. During Operation Desert Shield, he visited with soldiers on the ground, less than two months before they were officially sent it. Bush was instrumental in bringing the cease fire proposal to Saddam Hussein and negotiating the peace deal that brought an end to the conflict.
