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Witness to Revolution The Russian Revolution Diary and Letters of J. Butler Wright
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William Thomas Allison
ISBN: 0-275-97474-X
ISBN-13: 978-0-275-97474-9
288 pages
Praeger Publishers
Publication: 2/28/2002
List Price: $99.95 (UK Sterling Price: £68.95)
Availability: In Stock
Media Type: Hardcover
Trim Size: 6 1/8 x 9 1/4
Subjects:
Description: J. Butler Wright brought his young bride and son to Russia in the fall of 1916 to take up duties as counselor to the American Embassy in Petrograd. He had no idea that he would soon witness one of the most amazing events in history—the collapse of Imperial Russia and the advent of the Soviet Union. Recording daily events and observations in his diary, Wright left a vivid description of the day-to-day uncertainty in revolutionary Russia and American activities during this chaotic time. This account demonstrates how confused and dangerous diplomatic representation can be during times of crisis. While often missing the mark in what was happening in Russia, Wright and his fellow diplomats fulfilled their duty diligently.

From an official audience with the Tsar in early 1917 to a fantastic journey across Russia on the Trans-Siberian Railway in 1918, Wright recorded his observations on events, people, culture, intrigue, danger, and the normal occurrences of daily life. Throughout it all, Wright remained dedicated to his duty as an American representative and constantly searched for an effective American reaction to what was happening in Russia. On a personal level, however, Wright's concern for the safety of his wife and son during this chaotic time reveals that it was not always about duty to country.
Table of Contents:
  • Preface
    Foreword
    Prologue
    Chapters 1-6
    Epilogue
    Bibliography
    Index
About the Author: WILLIAM THOMAS ALLISON is Assistant Professor of History at Weber State University. He is the author of American Diplomats in Russia: Case Studies in Orphan Diplomacy, 1916-1919 (Praeger, 1997).
LCC Class: 947
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