While unchecked genocide in Chechnya, a legitimated Russian nuclear deal with Iran and apparent acquiescence to Russian interference in NATO expansion decisions would figure high on any list, Mr. Clinton may have done the most harm in an area that has received far less public attention the imposition of new constraints on U.S. options to defend against missile attack.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: The Clinton Missile Gaffe

CIA's ombudsman, a figure appointed to investigate allegations of political interference in the agency.

ECONOMIST: How the Americans and British got it all so wrong

NKVD, the careless sacrifice of lives, the endless political interference and above it all the malign, ruthless, suspicious figure of Stalin.

ECONOMIST: The second world war