was the dominant role played by the United States within the multinational effort. Specifically, the United States distinguished itself as the leader of the international defense coalition. In this way, previous predictions regarding the emergence of a multipolar world were challenged somewhat. Although multipolarism is still an essential part of the new international order, at the same time it can be seen that the United States will play a special role within this new diversity.
In determining the differences between expectations and reality, it may be noted that some of the surprises in the Gulf War represent a reassertion of old patterns that existed prior to the end of the Cold War. Thus, for example, it was shown that military force is still needed sometimes in order to handle difficult international situations. Furthermore, the importance of the United States to Western defense coalitions was confirmed. In addition to these reaffirmations of former values, the Gulf War also exhibited some new patterns which are unique to the post-Col
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