George Bush Presidential Library Opens: 5 Living Presidents Come Together (PHOTO)
Former President George W. Bush stepped back into the spotlight at the dedication of the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas, Texas.
The ceremony, held on Thursday morning, marked the return of Bush as a public figure. Since leaving office in January of 2009, he has remained a bit of a recluse. He has not waded into the politics of the day since his controversial time in office.
"I want to be productive. I want to make a difference in the world," Bush said to CBS.
"And I want to do so without undermining our current president and/or engaging in political debate."
Bush reflected on his legacy as the nation's 43rd leader in another interview.
"History will ultimately judge the decisions that were made for Iraq and I'm just not going to be around to see the final verdict," he said.
"In other words, I'll be dead."
However, Bush did believe that he did put his best effort forward.
"I know this, that Laura and I gave the presidency eight years of our life. We gave it our all. Made the best judgment calls I could," he said.
"I didn't compromise my principles. And I'm a content man. And I am excited about what we're going to do here."
The grand opening of the Bush Library showcased iconic moments in his presidency such as the twisted beam from the second tower of the World Trade Center. There are also personal mementos such as the dress Laura Bush wore to a state dinner on September 6, 2001, for then-Mexican President Vicente Fox.
Bush said he would leave it to the secretion of visitors to judge the library which features The Decision Points Theater. Guests will be able to review the Bush administration policy debates, and read and listen to some of the advice given to the president at the time.
"The museum is a -- it does give people the opportunity to hear the different points of view that I got on these particular issues," he said.
"The purpose of which is not to try to defend the policy. The purpose of which is to try to show people what it's like to be the president. And how you make decisions."
In a moment of unity, former commanders in chief Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter and his own father George H.W. Bush were in attendance for the library's opening. The current president, Barack Obama, was also there and spoke. Ahead of the proceedings, Obama praised his predecessor.
"Whatever our political differences, President Bush loves this country and loves his people and shared that same concern, and is concerned about all people in America," Obama said.
"Not just some. Not just those who voted Republican."
