[Notwithstanding]

Well, that is good to know.

I think Bush 41 and 43 would disagee with you on points 2 & 3 as well.

As would most people in the intel loop on both sides of the cold war.

As would the recorders of history. Which is what makes my heart feel all warm and fuzzy. I rarely agree with what modern recorders of what will become history determine (since they are largely the liberal mainstream press and academia). This is one thing where they are having trouble giving credit to the man they love to hate - the leader of the despised paternalistic homophobic chauvanistic Church.

[Notwithstanding]

Should have been:

This is one thing where they are having trouble AVOIDING giving credit...