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Accidental Diplomats: American Missionaries and the Cold War in Africa
Evangelicals in the Shadows of Global Conflict
In the twentieth century, a hidden chapter of the Cold War unfolded in Africa, shaped by American evangelical missionaries. Accidental Diplomats uncovers this lesser-known story, revealing how these missionaries’ quest to spread the gospel intersected with global geopolitics. Their spiritual mission had an unforeseen impact on the socio-political dynamics of the era.
This book offers a deep dive into the complex interplay of evangelical missions, African politics, and Cold War strategies. It explores the significant yet subtle role of faith in shaping international relations and cultural transformations in Congo, Ethiopia, and Kenya. The narrative brings to light key events and influential figures, unraveling the intricate web of religion and global power politics.
Accidental Diplomats is an enlightening read that challenges conventional Cold War narratives, spotlighting the often-overlooked influence of American evangelicals in shaping Africa’s political landscape during this tumultuous period. Providing a unique perspective on the intersections of faith, history, and international diplomacy during the Cold War, this book will be a valuable resource for scholars and lay readers alike.
In the twentieth century, a hidden chapter of the Cold War unfolded in Africa, shaped by American evangelical missionaries. Accidental Diplomats uncovers this lesser-known story, revealing how these missionaries’ quest to spread the gospel intersected with global geopolitics. Their spiritual mission had an unforeseen impact on the socio-political dynamics of the era.
This book offers a deep dive into the complex interplay of evangelical missions, African politics, and Cold War strategies. It explores the significant yet subtle role of faith in shaping international relations and cultural transformations in Congo, Ethiopia, and Kenya. The narrative brings to light key events and influential figures, unraveling the intricate web of religion and global power politics.
Accidental Diplomats is an enlightening read that challenges conventional Cold War narratives, spotlighting the often-overlooked influence of American evangelicals in shaping Africa’s political landscape during this tumultuous period. Providing a unique perspective on the intersections of faith, history, and international diplomacy during the Cold War, this book will be a valuable resource for scholars and lay readers alike.
298 pages, Paperback
Published April 30, 2024
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January 2, 2025
Phil Dow has the enthusiasm and credentials to write this book. He was born to educator missionary parents in Ethiopia, taught history, wrote a far-ranging story of Rift Valley Academy (RVA) and VIRTUOUS MINDS, and was Superintendent of Rosslyn Academy in Nairobi, Kenya. Now, he is Head of School at Black Forest Academy in Germany.
Dow was a senior at RVA in 1988 when Kenyan President Moi spent a day at the Christian boarding school. This piqued his curiosity about the intersection of evangelical missionaries, politics, and relations with the U.S. So, for his Ph.D. dissertation (Cambridge, 2013), he examined the cases of Kenya, Ethiopia, and Congo during the Cold War. That was vetted by his advisors and enhanced further by the publishing process and a catchy title. He researched archives, interviewed, and cited thoroughly, but the reading is still easy. He weaves a polished text and convincing argument.
A popular book of this nature might have included maps of the countries and pictures (besides the iconic cover one) of the key players and events. Nevertheless, ACCIDENTAL DIPLOMATS is a delight to see and read. As an RVA alumnus (1955), I have a special interest in the topic and setting but believe it will appeal to a broad audience. Check out its endorsements!
Dow was a senior at RVA in 1988 when Kenyan President Moi spent a day at the Christian boarding school. This piqued his curiosity about the intersection of evangelical missionaries, politics, and relations with the U.S. So, for his Ph.D. dissertation (Cambridge, 2013), he examined the cases of Kenya, Ethiopia, and Congo during the Cold War. That was vetted by his advisors and enhanced further by the publishing process and a catchy title. He researched archives, interviewed, and cited thoroughly, but the reading is still easy. He weaves a polished text and convincing argument.
A popular book of this nature might have included maps of the countries and pictures (besides the iconic cover one) of the key players and events. Nevertheless, ACCIDENTAL DIPLOMATS is a delight to see and read. As an RVA alumnus (1955), I have a special interest in the topic and setting but believe it will appeal to a broad audience. Check out its endorsements!
Displaying 1 of 1 review