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We Who Shape Nations: Diplomacy in the Modern Age
A fascinating, in-depth exploration of diplomacy and the real lives of the people whose careers move the cogs of international relations.
What is diplomacy? Popular media will often oversimplify diplomats, portraying them as savvy political agents of a state, cocktail-sipping spies in all but their titles. The truth, however, is far more dramatic. Diplomacy is the driving force behind every major international accord and every grand monument. Diplomats stand over every border drawn—and every nation formed in the modern age.
As the first Arab-Israeli and Druze ambassador, Dr. Reda Mansour has spent three decades in diplomatic service to the State of Israel, developing essential ties with nations worldwide during crucial points in his country’s history—and establishing them where there were none. In We Who Shape Nations, Ambassador Mansour breaks down and redefines the diplomatic mechanisms for the 21st century, taking readers on a well-crafted tour of diplomatic endeavors through the well-seasoned eyes of a career diplomat.
From the first-ever diplomat to Cold War-era diplomacy and the age of information, through the versatile skills that make up a diplomat’s toolset and the actual, day-to-day life of embassies and ambassadors—Ambassador Mansour offers an intimate view of diplomacy and its rich values—from setting geopolitical developments in motion, to the lives of the men and women who shape the fates of entire nations.
What is diplomacy? Popular media will often oversimplify diplomats, portraying them as savvy political agents of a state, cocktail-sipping spies in all but their titles. The truth, however, is far more dramatic. Diplomacy is the driving force behind every major international accord and every grand monument. Diplomats stand over every border drawn—and every nation formed in the modern age.
As the first Arab-Israeli and Druze ambassador, Dr. Reda Mansour has spent three decades in diplomatic service to the State of Israel, developing essential ties with nations worldwide during crucial points in his country’s history—and establishing them where there were none. In We Who Shape Nations, Ambassador Mansour breaks down and redefines the diplomatic mechanisms for the 21st century, taking readers on a well-crafted tour of diplomatic endeavors through the well-seasoned eyes of a career diplomat.
From the first-ever diplomat to Cold War-era diplomacy and the age of information, through the versatile skills that make up a diplomat’s toolset and the actual, day-to-day life of embassies and ambassadors—Ambassador Mansour offers an intimate view of diplomacy and its rich values—from setting geopolitical developments in motion, to the lives of the men and women who shape the fates of entire nations.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2025
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December 9, 2024
A Masterful Insight into Modern Diplomacy...
In "We Who Shape Nations," Dr. Reda Mansour draws from his groundbreaking career as Israel's first Arab-Israeli and Druze ambassador to deliver an illuminating examination of modern diplomacy. His unique perspective as both an insider and cultural bridge-builder provides readers with exceptional insights into the intricate world of international relations.
Drawing from three decades of diplomatic service, Mansour masterfully deconstructs popular misconceptions about diplomatic work while revealing the profound impact diplomats have on shaping global affairs. His analysis spans historical developments from early diplomatic traditions to contemporary challenges in the digital age. The book proficiently examines diplomatic practices, encompassing both high-stakes discussions and the routine functions of embassies, so providing readers with an in-depth comprehension of the construction and preservation of international relations.
This work is distinguished by Mansour's skill in integrating his personal experiences with bigger historical circumstances, resulting in a captivating story that functions as both a practical guide and a reflective examination of diplomacy's growing role in our interconnected world. His intimate perspective on significant diplomatic developments offers essential insights for comprehending international relations in the 21st century. Highly recommended. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
In "We Who Shape Nations," Dr. Reda Mansour draws from his groundbreaking career as Israel's first Arab-Israeli and Druze ambassador to deliver an illuminating examination of modern diplomacy. His unique perspective as both an insider and cultural bridge-builder provides readers with exceptional insights into the intricate world of international relations.
Drawing from three decades of diplomatic service, Mansour masterfully deconstructs popular misconceptions about diplomatic work while revealing the profound impact diplomats have on shaping global affairs. His analysis spans historical developments from early diplomatic traditions to contemporary challenges in the digital age. The book proficiently examines diplomatic practices, encompassing both high-stakes discussions and the routine functions of embassies, so providing readers with an in-depth comprehension of the construction and preservation of international relations.
This work is distinguished by Mansour's skill in integrating his personal experiences with bigger historical circumstances, resulting in a captivating story that functions as both a practical guide and a reflective examination of diplomacy's growing role in our interconnected world. His intimate perspective on significant diplomatic developments offers essential insights for comprehending international relations in the 21st century. Highly recommended. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
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