Jewelry and Politics
Madeleine Albright, the former secretary of state has written a book entitled “Read my Pins”.
The book part memoir and part social history, tells how diplomatic life and jewelry became linked – quite by accident.
Albright attributes this to a comment made by Saddam Hussein when he referred to her as “an unparalleled serpent”.
Shortly after, when she was deciding what to wear for a meeting with Iraqi Officials, a snake pin that she owned seemed highly appropriate.
Since then, pins have become part of Madelaine Albright’s diplomatic signature.Ranging from a happy ladybug, to crabs and wasps.
In a meeting with Nelson Mandela she wore a Zebra pin, and to celebrate her appointment as Secretary of State – an Eagle pin.
The stories in this jewelry and politics book “Read my Pins”, give an often humorous account of both the role of jewelry, and global politics in the life of one of America’s most fascinating and accomplished diplomats.
Madeleine Albright was the first woman US Secretary of State and held this post from 1997 – 2001. She was also Ambassador to the United Nations from 1993 to 1997.
A truly fascinating read.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure for more info.