The USIA, which operated from 1953 to 1999, was responsible for promoting U.S. culture, values, and policies abroad, often through films, literature, and international tours by prominent figures.
During the Cold War era, the USIA used American films to counter what was viewed as Soviet propaganda, and Douglas, already a major Hollywood star, was an ideal ambassador for the program. Douglas participated in goodwill tours in countries like Greece, Italy, Philippines, Jordan, Turkey, Egypt, and Israel, promoting a positive image of the United States through discussions about American ideals such as democracy and freedom of expression.
Of course, films like Spartacus were particularly well-suited to the mission of USIA because of their themes of resistance, personal resilience, and passion for freedom. And having Douglas present those films, providing commentary and personal insight about their making and meaning, was an extremely powerful way to advance the USIA agenda. In addition, Douglas’ personal story—the story of rising from being an impoverished immigrant to achieving international recognition, fortune, and fame—stood as a concrete example of the American Dream.
Douglas’ participation as a cultural diplomat played a part in the efforts of the United States to counter the Soviet Union’s influence on international politics by spreading pro-American narratives.His stature as an international star gave him the leverage to provide alternative perspectives to communist bloc nations and challenge their anti-American messaging.
The Douglas Foundation
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kimmorey@douglasfoundation.org
