Date of Award
2015
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Social Sciences
First Advisor
Harvey, David
Keywords
United States, Russia, Politics, Stereotypes, Perceptions
Area of Concentration
History
Abstract
This thesis examines the development of American perceptions and attitudes of Russia and Russians from 1867–1933 and how they came to impact policy decisions. It explores the origins of an essentialist view of Russian national character and how these ideas were adopted and adapted by American Russia “experts”, observers and policy makers. In addition, it seeks to illustrate that American views of Russia, while continually changing over time in response to different circumstances, were taken from a common fund of ideas about Russian national character. Americans wanted Russia to become a more modern and democratic society and spoke positively about Russia when it seemed as though Russia would become a democratic country more like the United States. When events in Russia did not meet those expectations, however, Americans pointed to negative Russian traits in order to explain shortcomings and failures.
Recommended Citation
Twillman, Michael, "WALK WITH US ON THE PATH OF PROGRESS: THE UNITED STATES AND RUSSIA, PERCEPTIONS, ATTITUDES AND POLICY, 1867–1933" (2015). Theses & ETDs. 5128.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/5128