American Experience Season 34 Episode 2 The American Diplomat

The American Experience is an award-winning documentary series that explores the rich and complex history of the United States through the stories of its people. In season 34 episode 2, titled "The American Diplomat," viewers are taken on a journey through the life and career of Richard Holbrooke, one of America's most influential diplomats.

Holbrooke was a man who dedicated his life to public service, working tirelessly to promote American interests around the globe. From his early days as a young Foreign Service officer in Vietnam, to his later years as a seasoned negotiator in the Balkans, Holbrooke was a force to be reckoned with in the world of diplomacy.

The episode begins by delving into Holbrooke's upbringing, exploring his family background and the values that shaped his worldview. From there, we see him begin his career in the Foreign Service, navigating the turbulent political landscape of the 1960s and 70s. At every turn, Holbrooke was forced to grapple with difficult issues, from the war in Vietnam to the rise of Soviet influence in Eastern Europe.

As the episode unfolds, we see Holbrooke's skills as a negotiator put to the test in a variety of contexts. He is instrumental in bringing about the Dayton Accords, which helped to end the brutal war in Bosnia. He also works to broker a peace deal in Kosovo, where tensions between ethnic Albanians and Serbs threatened to boil over into another violent conflict.

Throughout it all, we see the toll that Holbrooke's work takes on him personally. He struggles with health problems, including a heart condition that ultimately contributes to his death. He also grapples with the political realities of his work, as he is sometimes forced to make compromises and work with dictators and war criminals in order to achieve his goals.

Despite these challenges, Holbrooke remains committed to his work and to the ideals of American democracy. He remains optimistic about the future, even as he acknowledges the many obstacles and injustices that still need to be addressed. As such, this episode is a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the service of his country, and to the cause of peace and justice around the world.

Overall, "The American Diplomat" is a compelling and informative episode of The American Experience. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the workings of American diplomacy, and sheds light on one of the most influential figures in modern American history. Whether you are a history buff, a political junkie, or simply someone who is interested in the stories of remarkable people, this episode is well worth watching.