Nineteenth-century America through the Eyes of John Gennadius

Abstract

The aim of this article is to unfold and analyze the view of America held by
John Gennadius [Ioannis Gennadios], one of the most important diplomats of nineteenthcentury
Greece. Having spent most of his life in England as a member of the Greek legation,
which he served for more than 20 years, Gennadius was influenced by the ongoing British
discussion of the “American miracle”. His perception was, however, fostered during two
visits to America, a professional one (1888) and a private one (1893-1894). He was involved
in American political life as the official negotiator of the Greek government, but also
enjoyed the culture, witnessed the wealth and the galloping development and made many
acquaintances. All of this made an impression on him. He commented on the importance
of British influence on American civilization, acknowledged the material and intellectual
progress of its people and foresaw the potential of its thriving economy in world politics.