The document discusses why the US lost in Iraq, examining whether it was inevitable due to failures in grand strategy, strategy, or tactics. It analyzes that while some armed opposition was inevitable, the scale was likely increased by the invasion itself and failures to establish security or appreciate nationalism. Grand strategy flaws included using misleading rationales, failing to gain allied support, and disproportionate use of force. Strategic flaws included underestimating the insurgency and overreliance on limited Iraqi groups. Tactical execution is not assessed by the author. Orientation towards preconceived assumptions despite contrary evidence likely contributed to failures.