The purpose of this book is to give an overview of the role played in the relations between nations, throughout history, by translators and interpreters, but especially interpreters. The author has tried to paint a general view of the world in which the political linguist functions, and has functioned, throughout history. This book thus fills a gap left by political historians, who seldom ask themselves in what language the political negotiations they describe were conducted. Nor do they wonder what effect, for good or ill, the level of competence and the personal interests of the interpreter may have had.