ABSTRACT
At the beginning of the twentieth century, American diplomatic wives wielded power as role models, homemakers, hostesses and representatives of American culture abroad. The American wives, in other words, dealt with politics indirectly by learning and using symbolism and social messages specific to diplomacy. It also focuses on how wives of Swedish diplomats assumed their diplomatic roles from the 1960s onwards. These wives in the 1960s, like their American and British counterparts, chose to be part of diplomacy and found their roles within the residences meaningful. Ever since the development of permanent diplomatic missions, the residence, like the courts and salons, had become a primary work site for diplomats. Social events such as state receptions, luncheons, and dinner parties part of the diplomat's work occurred within the premises of the residence. Here journalists, cultural workers, politicians, businessmen, and diplomats could meet in a more relaxed milieu to negotiate and exchange information.
