Roman Diary of A Christian Diplomat
This system, the use and creation of ambassadors during the 15th century in Italy, has had long-term effects on Europe and, in turn, the world’s diplomatic and political progression. Ambassador rights established in the 16th century are still used in Europe, including the rights of the ambassadors in host countries as well as the proper diplomatic procedures. An ambassador as a representative of the state negotiated and disseminated information in order to keep peace and establish relationships with other states. During difficult times ambassadors concentrated their efforts to maintain peaceful relations with nations and make alliances. In this modern day and age the use of ambassadors is widespread. Diplomatic representatives of states deal with any problems that occur within the international system. Normally ambassadors are assigned to countries for a period of time so that they may get acquainted with the culture and local people. This familiarization makes them more politically effective and trusted, enabling them to accomplish goals that their host country desires. The Origin of Ambassador/Approval The term Ambassador has many origins: from Middle English ambassadour, Anglo-French ambassateur, from the Latin word AmbaxusAmbactus, meaning servant or minister; and to the Old High German ambaht, “service”. The foreign government to which an ambassador is assigned must first approve and accept the person. This is called agrimont. There are cases wherein the foreign government reverses its approval by declaring the diplomat persona non grata, an unacceptable person. This declaration usually results in the recall of the ambassador to his/her home nation. 2
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