The Genesis of American-Persian Relations, 1883-1904
The Genesis of American-Persian Relations, 1883-1904
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Date
1978
Authors
Grunwald, Frank Herbert
Advisor
Foust, Clifford M.
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Abstract
This thesis discusses the causes which led to diplomatic
representation on the part of the United States in Persia,
the means by which such representation was established, and
the first twenty years or so of its history. It covers the
l imitations of this relationship due to the American foreign
policy of the time, that of non-involvement and non-interference
in the domestic affairs of Persia, and the positive contribution
made by American missionaries in furthering friendly
relations between the two countries. The thesis shows how
America's lack of interest in Persia was contrasted with the
Persian drive to enlist United States support in strengthening
its ability to resist economic and political pressure, mainly
from Russia, and how the Department of State repeatedly turned
aside all advances made by Persia through the United States
minister in Teheran and offered no encouragement to American
business to become established there. It deals with the attitude
of Kurdish tribesmen toward Persian Christians, American
missionaries, and the Persian central authority, and how
their attitude influenced American diplomatic relations.