History Of American Ambassadors
During the 18th century, Benjamin Franklin was appointed as the Minister Plenipotentiary to France. This was followed by various other eminent ambassadors like C. Douglas Dillon, Ellsworth Bunker, Michael J. Mansfield, Washington Irving, John Sherman Cooper, James Longstreet, Paul H. Nitze, George H. W. Bush, and hundreds of others.
These American Ambassadors left their non-diplomatic government services or private sector jobs and decided to serve as diplomat for their country at the call of the President of the United States. These great personalities have extensive knowledge and vast experience along with accomplished careers in various fields like law, business, academia, arts, military, public and political life.
In the year 1983, a group of delegates met to set up a council in order to support and encourage Foreign Service. In addition, they aimed to enhance the image of the State in the view of the nation and the Congress and recognize the valuable contribution and achievements of non-career diplomats to conduct the foreign policy of the United States. The beginning members were established intellects in their own respect and included Kenneth Rush, William J. Vanden Heuvel, Marvin Warner, Milton Wolf, Averell Harriman, Ellsworth Bunker, Angier Biddle Duke and John Sherman Cooper.
In the present day, this council has more than 230 members who are active in their profession or are retired citizens. Their service has extended to about 10 US presidents for tenure of more than 5 decades. They form a bridge between political parties and various administrations and have the huge responsibility of linking the public and private sectors.
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