The Influence of Family on Diplomacy

Madeleine Albright attributes much of her understanding of diplomacy and international relations to her upbringing and the influence of her father, Joseph Korbel, a Czechoslovak diplomat. Growing up in a household where discussions centered on foreign policy and history, she learned to value an international perspective and civic duty early on. Her father's story, including his defection to the U.S. and subsequent role as a professor, reinforced the importance of education and dialogue in shaping global affairs. Albright’s relationship with Condoleezza Rice, who trained under her father, highlights the generational impact of familial mentorship in diplomatic careers.