Outposts of Diplomacy: A History of the Embassy

by G. R. Berridge

This compelling history traces the evolution of the embassy from its ancient origins to its enduring presence in the modern world. Beginning with the embassy’s precursors in antiquity, Outposts of Diplomacy explores its emergence on the cusp of the Italian Renaissance, its pinnacle during the nineteenth century and its navigation through the challenges of twentieth-century conference diplomacy.G. R. Berridge investigates how this European institution adapted its staffing, architecture and communication methods to changing international landscapes, including the tumultuous wars of religion and encounters in East Asia. He also describes the expansion of the embassy’s responsibilities, such as providing diplomatic cover for intelligence operations. Infused with vibrant anecdotes of remarkable individuals and influential family dynasties, this book offers a profusely illustrated exploration of the embassy’s rich history.

Genres: History

256 pages, Hardcover

Published May 23, 2024

Reviews

[History Today]

We all know what embassies are: grand houses where pompous people stand under chandeliers drinking champagne to no obvious purpose. Why should we waste our money on these overpaid toffs when modern technology allows instant communication between world leaders?

G.R. Berridge tackles the question in his history of the permanent diplomatic mission. It is a convoluted story, covering many continents and cultures, but Berridge has mastered the voluminous literature and the intricate detail. He is a fluent storyteller, though the story is overwhelming. It probably began in the Renaissance, when the Italian states decided to keep people in rival cities to handle business. The questions started immediately: did an ambassador need to be so grand? Or live in such an expensive house? Couldn’t the business be done by people sent from home?

For an answer you have to go back to the basics. Governments need to pass messages safely to their opposite numbers and understand the replies. That sounds simple, but it isn’t. Politicians have little idea how foreign minds think. The messages they send may make sense to them, less so to their correspondents. They need someone who can ensure each side understands the other and can mop up the tears when things go wrong – as they so often do. An ambassador can also be a convenient scapegoat.

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Rodric Braithwaite was British Ambassador to the Soviet Union (1988-91).

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

I certainly did not wake up with any intention of learning about the history and evolution of the embassy (and ambassadors). But I am glad I was curious enough to give this book a try. Consider it a tiny window into understanding the evolution of the state.