This fascinating book reveals the complex interplay of architecture, politics, and power in the history of America's embassy-building program. Through colorful personalities, bizarre episodes, and high drama this compelling story takes readers from "inspection" junkets by Congressmen to bugged offices at the Moscow embassy to the daring rescue of American personnel in Somalia.
Rigorously researched and lucidly written, this new edition, updated in the face of the embassy bombings in Kenya and Tanzania in 1998 and events of September 11, 2001, continues the clear and often charged story of how America presents itself abroad, trying to balance an open and welcoming political philosophy with increasing concern for security in a world beset by terrorism. The book will appeal to anybody interested in American history and the complicated issue of representing political power through building.