British Diplomacy and the Concept of the Eastern Pact (1933-1935): Analyses, Projects, Activities

Dariusz Jeziorny explores British diplomatic relations in the years 1933–1935, illuminating London's attitude towards the Eastern Pact and highlighting British diplomacy's way of thinking and acting toward the European and even global situation. Was His Majesty's Government interested in the success of the initiative promoted by Moscow and Paris? Did they understand the motives of the promoters? How did they react to the resistance of countries unwilling to accept such an issue? Who were London's main partners to negotiate with? Could the Foreign Office be regarded competent in dealing with European problems, especially Eastern European ones? Were the former conclusions of the academic literature correct in assessing the particular powers' role in the failure of the concept of the Eastern Pact? Jeziorny provides answers to these questions through detailed analysis of governmental materials available in the National Archives in London, particularly the general correspondence of the British Foreign Office. He provides a fascinating look behind the scenes of British diplomacy and its attitudes toward the French initiative.