The era of French scientific insularity is largely gone by, and most French historical research happens nowadays under the influence of and in dialogue with international trends. The recent renewal of interest in the history of diplomatic practices, the cultural history of diplomacy, diplomatic and semi-diplomatic personnel, cultural and economic diplomacy must however be reinstated in a specific context of French international history.1 The goal of this review essay is, through a series of readings, to highlight areas of recent French-speaking research on the history of diplomacy and diplomats. The list is far from exhaustive; it is also inevitably biased, highlighting the interests of its author. Written from an outsider’s perspective, it could easily be completed by scholars situated closer to the subject. It will however, one hopes, bring into view some of the trends visible in recent French-speaking literature.