Does Nixon's help for Israel prove he wasn't an anti Semite?I think Nixon saw Israel as a tactical ally in that part of the World. Soviets were arming the other side. Israel was in big trouble in the 73 conflict. Its loss would have been a disaster for US foreign policy and Nixon'e Presidency. I doubt Nixon loved Israel for the meaningful notion of Zionism.
True Nixon had Jews in his cabinet. Not only Kissinger, but Bill Safire and law partner Leonard Garment who was one of his closest confidents. However, one his more interesting friends was the late Rabbi Baruch Korf. Nixon was known to spill his guts to a man who was a constant presence. When Nixon resigned and went back to San Clemente he called on Korf for solace.
Nixon is a very complex figure. BTW, he was certainly NO Conservative. He talked a good game. He became known as a Red baitor which infuriated the Left. But, his Presidency was a disaster for our causes. Nixon was probably a very flawed individual. However, I'm beginning to believe most Presidents have to have a screw loose to endure what it takes to get to the Oval Office. Was he a bigot? Mircky stuff. He certainly had his moments.
==Nixon is a very complex figure. BTW, he was certainly NO Conservative. He talked a good game. He became known as a Red baitor which infuriated the Left. But, his Presidency was a disaster for our causes.
You and I are in complete agreement on that point. You might want to check the links in post #2. To my mind, Felt was a hero of the Cold War. I'm not sure why he turned on Nixon, but I'm sure it will come out in due time. BTW, I think the Left is making a big mistake by circling the wagons around Felt. He is about as anti-Communist as they come (unlike Nixon, who was anti-Communist only when it was popular).
IMO, the antisemite rap is a function of the era he grew up in, and the stupidity of taping his office. His support for Israel was certainly a function of the cold war. But he bucked Kissinger's advice in providing it. My guess there was some affection there, but that conversation wasn't taped. He was a complicated man.