January 17, 1991
Military Action
Operation Desert Storm Begins
The U.S.-led coalition launched Operation Desert Storm against Iraqi forces in Kuwait.
Legacy Summary
Bush’s presidency is remembered chiefly for its foreign policy: he guided U.S. diplomacy during the collapse of the Soviet bloc, helped manage German reunification, and assembled an international coalition that liberated Kuwait in the 1990–91 Gulf War.
On the domestic front he signed major laws including the Americans with Disabilities Act and the 1990 Clean Air Act amendments, but his acceptance of a 1990 budget deal that raised taxes despite a campaign pledge hurt his political standing and contributed to his 1992 reelection defeat.
Notable Actions
Led international coalition in the 1990–91 Gulf War to liberate Kuwait; Guided U.S. diplomacy during the end of the Cold War and German reunification; Signed the Americans with Disabilities Act into law (1990); Signed the Clean Air Act Amendments (1990); Agreed to a 1990 budget deal that included tax increases despite a campaign pledge
Timeline Entries
Key highlights and dated events associated with this presidency.