History of United States Cultural Diplomacy, The: 1770 to the Present Day (New Approaches to International History) - Softcover

Krenn, Michael L.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1472510011 ISBN 13: 9781472510013

Publisher: Bloomsbury Academic, 2017

Synopsis

In the wake of 9/11, the United States government rediscovered the value of culture in international relations, sending cultural ambassadors around the world to promote the American way of life. This is the most recent effort to use American culture as a means to convince others that the United States is a land of freedom, equality, opportunity, and scientific and cultural achievements to match its material wealth and military prowess. In The History of United States Cultural Diplomacy Michael Krenn charts the history of the cultural diplomacy efforts from Benjamin Franklin's service as commissioner to France in the 1770s through to the present day. He explores how these efforts were sometimes inspiring, often disastrous, and nearly always controversial attempts to tell the 'truth' about America.

This is the first comprehensive study of America's efforts in the field of cultural diplomacy. It reveals a dynamic conflict between those who view U.S. culture as a means to establish meaningful dialogues with the rest of the world and those who consider American art, music, theater as additional propaganda weapons.

About this title

About the Author:

Michael L. Krenn is Professor of History at Appalachian State University, USA.

Review:

“Krenn skillfully summarizes and synthesizes the work of many scholars in his compact book, which also draws on his own previous work on U.S. art exhibitions and African American diplomats.” – Journal of World History

“[A] gracefully written, solidly researched survey. Summing Up: Recommended. All academic levels/libraries; professionals.” – CHOICE

About this edition

• Publisher: Bloomsbury Academic
• Publication date: 2017
• ISBN 10: 1472510011
• ISBN 13: 9781472510013
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 216