Paul Johnson, a British historian, has an interesting column in Forbes (free membership required, feel free to sign in as "AdmiralQuixote" password "Solport"). Towards the end of it, he discusses how many Europeans are changing their views about Bush.

Old Europe Stops Sneering

There is nothing flashy about George W. Bush. He does not play with words or use more of them than necessary. He has a few clear ideas, shared by most Americans, and the willpower to back them. With Bush, you know where you are and where you are heading. Hence, even in Old Europe, the sneers are dying down. Most sensible Europeans--not just those in England, who have always recognized Bush as a "sound type"--are beginning to admire Bush, and the prospect of his having a second term is increasingly welcomed as an assurance of stability and continuity.

Obviously, there will still be some Europeans who dislike Bush, just as there are some Americans who do so. However, Johnson's column reinforces an impression I have received from many of my Europeans friends. It has taken three years, but many of those who originally wondered why anyone voted for Bush now see his strengths.

I am glad to see this. Not because of any potential impact in November. After all, I doubt a single American will change their vote in November based on how Bush is perceived in Europe. Rather, I am pleased because this should make future international cooperation on the War on Terror and other joint initiatives more likely to succeed.

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