The First Assembly of the Diplomats of the Republic of Lithuania in the United States, Washington, 1924

Abstract

The first convention of Lithuanian representatives in the United States, held in Washington, D.C., in 1924, has yet to be thoroughly examined in Lithuanian historiography. A transcript of a protocol from the meeting of Lithuanian Envoy Kazys Bizauskas and consuls Julius J. Bielskis and Povilas Žadeikis, preserved in the archives of the Lithuanian Consulate General in New York, sheds light on the reasons for this gathering. These included the desire to enhance the efficiency of consular work and the representation of Lithuania. The document highlights challenges faced by the consuls, such as heavy workload, staff shortages, and persistent financial difficulties. Additionally, the meeting sought to coordinate the activities of the representatives, establish a division of responsibilities, and propose measures to the Lithuanian government aimed at facilitating their operations. The document and its copies were sent by the Lithuanian Envoy not only to the consulates in New York and Chicago but also to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kaunas. Such meetings subsequently became a tradition.