Diplomatic Theory from Machiavelli to Kissinger

Abstract

For Richelieu, 'continuos negotiation' meant a broad and permanent network of diplomatic agents. these persons, he believed, should be charged before other tasks with seeking accommodations whenever opportunities presented themselves and making their princes appear as powerful as possible at the most important courts. Though Richelieu had more to say directly on the tactics required by the first of these tasks than the second, the emphasis on the importance of honoring treaty obligations was rooted in his belief in the need to guard at all costs the reputation of the prince. In his enthusiasm for negaciation continuelle, Richelieu may have overlooked, or simply been uninterested in noting, both its costs and hazards and even in some circumstances its very limited relevance. Nevertheless, for his circumstances and his time, his emphasis was right and his insights shrewd. Richelieu's Testament Politique is the clear and authentic voice of the diplomatic system of early modern Europe.