Ambassadors of War: The Dynamics of Diplomacy and Armed Conflict

Regardless of technological advances in warfare, nation-states continue conducting business between one another, even while shells make impact at embassy doorsteps and shipping lanes are mined. How do belligerent governments maintain contact during hostilities? Can differing cultures agree on the rules of war? How should enemies negotiate? Why do wars start, and why do they end? This essay examines the questions of life and death, the role of diplomats in grappling with the fates of populations, and examines the historical record for factual insights. From case studies of wars large and small, recent and historical, Ambassadors of War considers the lessons learned from soldiers, bureaucrats, diplomats, and other public servants who have made vital moves to either shorten or prolong war. The book addresses the role of intelligence, political actions, cultural influence, economic measures, and military power, as well as diplomatic strategy and tactics, negotiation, and the tasks and skills of diplomacy. It relies heavily on primary sources, including diplomatic correspondence, archived governmental documents, and relevant diary entries. The diverse case studies illustrate how diplomatic efforts have influenced, and have been influenced by, the battlefields raging outdoors. What emerges is a comprehensive view of the successes and failures of wartime diplomacy, from the First World War to the Iraq War. Diplomacy and war are interconnected, and the source of war and peace remains solidly with the people involved.