How Former VP Dick Cheney Led the Charge on the War on Terror

This documentary, originally aired in 2006 as “The Dark Side” by FRONTLINE, investigates the role of former Vice President Dick Cheney in the formulation and execution of the War on Terror following the September 11, 2001, attacks. It examines his influence as a primary architect of the U.S. response and the internal conflicts that arose within the U.S. government regarding intelligence and policy decisions.

The program details the dynamic between Vice President Cheney and former Director of Central Intelligence George Tenet, focusing on their differing approaches and the debate surrounding the objectives of the War on Terror, particularly the decision to initiate military action in Iraq. The investigation draws upon over 40 interviews and thousands of documents to provide a chronological account of events and decision-making processes within the U.S. government during this period.

Key Themes & Topics Examined

• The immediate U.S. government response to the September 11, 2001, attacks.
• Vice President Dick Cheney’s role in shaping the War on Terror strategy.
• The internal conflict between the intelligence community and the Vice President’s office.
• The shift in focus from Afghanistan to Iraq in U.S. foreign policy.
• The significance of the October 2002 National Intelligence Estimate Report.
• Events preceding the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
• Allegations of a covert campaign against the Central Intelligence Agency.

Archival & Investigative Sources

• Over 40 interviews with individuals involved in the events.
• Thousands of government documents.
• Reporting by Michael Kirk (writer, producer, director).
• Reporting by Jim Gilmore (producer, reporter).

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the primary focus of this documentary?

The documentary primarily focused on former Vice President Dick Cheney’s role in leading the War on Terror and the internal conflicts within the U.S. government, particularly with the CIA, after the September 11, 2001, attacks.

When did this documentary originally air?

The documentary, titled “The Dark Side,” originally aired in 2006 as part of the FRONTLINE series.

What key events are covered in the documentary?

Key events covered include the U.S. response to 9/11, internal discussions within the government, the shift in focus from Afghanistan to Iraq, the October 2002 National Intelligence Estimate Report, and the lead-up to the Iraq War.