Description
Signed first edition of Living Faith by President Jimmy Carter, inscribed to Foreign Service officer Wayne Smith, an outspoken critic of the U.S. Embargo on Cuba.
Octavo, [12], 256pp. Green hardcover, title in gilt on spine, author’s replica signature on cover. Gray endpapers. Stated “First Edition” on copyright page with full number line beginning with “2.” In the publisher’s dust jacket, near fine, retail price on front flap.
Inscribed by President Jimmy Carter on the front free endpaper: “With admiration and friendship to Wayne Smith, who exemplifies a living faith – Jimmy Carter 1-97.”
Wayne Smith (1932-2024) was a U.S. diplomat and expert on Latin American affairs, best known for his opposition to U.S. policy toward Cuba. When the United States broke off diplomatic relations with Cuba on January 3, 1961, Smith was one of the last to leave the embassy by ferry to Key West.
He spent the remainder of his career in government and academia advocating for a return to diplomatic relations with Cuba. Serving in the U.S. Foreign Service for 25 years, including a position as the Chief of the U.S. Interests Section in Havana from 1979 to 1982, Smith became a prominent critic of the U.S. embargo on Cuba, arguing that it was counterproductive to both nations’ interests.
During the Carter Administration, Smith was Director of Cuban Affairs at the State Department and later appointed the Chief of Mission in Havana, serving from 1979-1982, before resigning due to policy disagreements with the Reagan administration.
