10 Pivotal Moments that Defined George Friedman’s Career

An accomplished geopolitical analyst, historian, and author, George Friedman is widely recognized for his profound knowledge and insights into global politics, security, and intelligence.

Due to his extensive experience, governments and organizations worldwide often seek his counsel. Throughout his lengthy career, Friedman has accurately predicted several major political and economic occurrences that have shaped recent history. Presented below are ten crucial events that have marked his illustrious trajectory.

1. Founding Stratfor
   In 1996, George Friedman founded Stratfor, a geopolitical intelligence firm that collects and analyzes data from all over the world. Stratfor’s clients include governments, multinational corporations, and universities. The company is renowned for its accurate geopolitical forecasts and analysis, which have helped clients make strategic decisions in a rapidly changing global environment.
2. Predicting the Iraq War
   In 2003, George Friedman predicted that the US would invade Iraq. His analysis correctly identified that, contrary to popular belief at the time, Iraq posed a serious threat to US national security. Just a few months later, US forces launched Operation Iraqi Freedom, which resulted in the removal of Saddam Hussein from power.
3. Predicting Ukraine-Russia Conflict
   In 2014, Friedman predicted that Ukraine and Russia would enter into a conflict that could lead to a destabilization of the region. His analysis was spot on, as the war in eastern Ukraine has continued to this day, resulting in thousands of deaths and political tensions between Russia and the West.
4. Writing The Next 100 Years
   In 2009, George Friedman wrote The Next 100 Years, a book that predicts the geopolitical landscape of the 21st century. The book was widely acclaimed and has become a must-read for anyone interested in global politics and security. Many of Friedman’s predictions have already come to fruition, including the rise of China and the decline of Western powers.
5. Founding Geopolitical Futures
   In 2015, George Friedman founded Geopolitical Futures, a publication that provides strategic analysis of international events. The company’s analysts and contributors are renowned for their accurate and insightful analysis of global politics, economics, and security.
6. Predicting Brexit
   In 2016, George Friedman predicted that the UK would vote to leave the European Union. His analysis of the political and economic factors driving the Brexit referendum proved to be correct, as the UK voted to leave the EU by a narrow margin.
7. Advising Government Agencies
   George Friedman has advised many government agencies, including the US Department of Defense and the CIA. His expertise in global politics and intelligence analysis has been instrumental in the development of strategic policies and decision-making processes.
8. Founding Mauldin Economics
   In 2012, George Friedman co-founded Mauldin Economics, a financial research firm that provides economic and investment analysis. The company’s research and analysis have been instrumental in helping investors navigate the rapidly changing global economic landscape.
9. Predicting the Arab Spring
   In 2011, George Friedman predicted that a wave of unprecedented protests would sweep across the Arab world. His analysis accurately forecast the toppling of authoritarian regimes in Tunisia, Egypt, and Libya, as well as the ongoing conflict in Syria.
10. Authoring The Storm Before the Calm
    In 2020, George Friedman authored The Storm Before the Calm, a book that predicts the political and economic landscape of the US in the coming decades. The book argues that despite the current political and social unrest, the US will ultimately emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.

In conclusion, George Friedman’s career has been defined by his ability to accurately predict and analyze geopolitical events. His expertise in global politics and intelligence analysis has made him a trusted advisor to governments and organizations worldwide. From founding Stratfor to predicting the outcomes of wars and referendums, George Friedman’s impact on global politics will continue to be felt for years to come.