c) Condoleezza Rice

Condoleezza Rice’s tenure as the U.S. National Security Advisor from 2001 to 2005 under President George W. Bush marked a significant chapter in American political history. She broke through historic barriers as the first African American woman to hold this high-level position, showcasing her expertise and leadership during a particularly tumultuous period in global affairs.

Rice’s role as National Security Advisor placed her at the forefront of U.S. foreign policy during some of the early 21st century’s most critical events. Her tenure was notably marked by the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, events that dramatically altered the course of U.S. foreign policy and international relations. In response to these attacks, Rice was instrumental in shaping the Bush administration’s approach to national security and foreign policy, including the decisions to go to war in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Her contributions during this period were pivotal in the global war on terrorism and the broader U.S. strategy in the Middle East. Rice’s tenure as National Security Advisor showcased her as a key figure in navigating complex international dynamics and responding to global security challenges. Her subsequent appointment as the U.S. Secretary of State in 2005 further solidified her role as a significant figure in American political and diplomatic history.