George F. Kennan Books

In the 1860s, a Russian-American company sponsored a survey for a proposed telegraph line extending from Siberia and the Bering Strait to the United States and Europe. Although the mission failed, it was one of the first explorations of the Siberian wilderness -- and provided the rich material for Kennan's entertaining vignettes about the expedition. He weaves a colorful travelogue that ranges from tales of seven weeks aboard a Russian ship to accounts of a Cossack wedding and the celestial wonders of the North.

Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, the National Book Award, the Bancroft Prize, and the Parkman Prize From acclaimed diplomat and historian George Kennan, a landmark history of the crucial months in 1917–1918 that forged the pattern of Soviet-American relations When the Bolsheviks seized power in November 1917, American diplomats in St. Petersburg and Moscow were thrown into a bewildering situation. Should the new regime be recognized? What was its true nature? And was there any way to keep Russia fighting against Germany in the Great War? In vivid detail, George Kennan’s classic history tells the gripping story of the Americans’ furious, and ultimately failed, efforts to strike a deal to keep the Soviets in the war—and how these events set the pattern of future relations between the two emerging superpowers. In a new foreword, Kennan biographer Frank Costigliola puts the book in the context of its Cold War publication and Kennan’s life.

The narrative explores Finland's remarkable journey through the tumultuous events of the twentieth century, highlighting its successful defiance against Soviet domination during World War II. It delves into the country's adept navigation of the Cold War, showcasing how Finns maintained their independence and democratic governance. Uniquely, Finland stands out as one of the few European nations with a continuous legacy of democratic rule since the early 1900s, underscoring its resilience and strategic diplomacy.

These letters show Kennan's fear of the extent to which the United States misunderstood the Soviet regime. Especially in 1944, at the time of the Russians' betrayal of the Warsaw Uprising, it became evident that the Soviets were interested in establishing their rigid domination of Eastern and Central Europe and dividing the continent.

This landmark collection features the unpublished diaries of George F. Kennan, a prominent U.S. diplomat, covering ninety years of American history. It offers unique insights into his thoughts and experiences, shedding light on significant historical events.

The second volume explores the historical context and intricacies of Siberia and its exile system, providing a detailed examination of the penal practices and societal implications during the late 19th century. This reprint maintains the authenticity of the original 1891 edition, offering readers a glimpse into the harsh realities faced by exiles and the broader impact on Russian society.

Exploring the adventures among the Koraks and other tribes in Kamchatka and Northern Asia, this classic account offers a unique glimpse into tent life in Siberia. The book has been meticulously reformatted and redesigned for clarity, ensuring that its historical significance is preserved for future generations. It falls within the genres of history and Eastern Hemisphere studies, providing valuable insights into the cultures and experiences of the region.

Set during the Cuban War of Independence, this historical narrative offers a firsthand account of the conflict's dynamics and its effects on those involved. George Kennan vividly portrays the struggles of both Cuban rebels and Spanish forces while exploring the military strategies and the broader cultural, social, and political contexts of the war. His eloquent yet accessible writing provides deep insights into the complexities of warfare and the human experience, making this work a significant historical document that sheds light on Cuba's fight for sovereignty.