The Image of the USSR in the Czechoslovak-American Diplomatic Discourse During the Second World War

The article provides analysis of various primary sources (diplomatic correspondence, public speeches, interviews and articles in American media, memoirs) about the visits of Czechoslovak politicians in exile E. Benes and J. Masaryk to the US during World War II. Their negotiations with American diplomats and government officials, as well as interviews and public speeches in the US were often devoted to relations with the USSR. The author highlights the main aspects of their perception of Russia and concludes that it was multifaceted and contradictory. On the one hand, the USSR was perceived as a partner and an important ally, on the other hand, as a potential threat and a source of problems. Czechoslovak politicians emphasized the need to maintain and deepen close relations with Moscow, to overcome its hostility, and to stimulate the development of democratic tendencies in the USSR. At the same time, they were not entirely confident in J. Stalin's intentions and remained wary of his plans. In general, the perception of the USSR broadcasted by Czechoslovak politicians in the United States was complementary, their opinion contributed to strengthening the positive image of Russia in America. This was a consequence of their pragmatic approach, as well as Moscow's cautious policy. American politicians and foreign policy experts perceived these opinions and recommendations as an important source of information. The obtained results supplement and expand our understanding of the perception of the USSR by the leaders of the Czechoslovak emigration during the Second World War and to highlight some ways for promoting a positive image of Russia.

World War II, Czechoslovakia, USSR, Soviet-Czechoslovakian relations, Soviet-American relations, Edward Benes