The Diplomats (film)

The Diplomats is a 2009 documentary film directed by Ric Burns and produced by Steeplechase Films. The film chronicles the intertwined lives and careers of three American ambassadors to Russia across the 20th century: W. Averell Harriman, George F. Kennan, and Charles E. Bohlen. It explores their roles in shaping U.S. foreign policy during pivotal moments of the Cold War.

The film uses archival footage, photographs, and interviews to illustrate the personal and professional experiences of these diplomats, examining their strategies, successes, and failures in navigating the complex relationship between the United States and the Soviet Union (later Russia). It delves into their intellectual contributions to understanding Soviet intentions and their influence on American decision-making.

The Diplomats aims to provide historical context and analysis of the Cold War era, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy in managing international relations during periods of heightened tension. It highlights the challenges faced by these individuals in balancing national interests with the pursuit of peaceful coexistence.