SIR FITZROY MACLEAN – A BRITISH FRIEND OF GEORGIA

Georgian-British relations encompass many fascinating aspects. In this regard, the sibling duo of Oliver and Marjorie Wardrop stand out as colourful figures. Another significant and distinguished personality in the history of Georgian-British relations is Sir Fitzroy Maclean—a politician, diplomat, military officer, and historian—who is also considered a prototype for Ian Fleming's famous character, James Bond. Fitzroy Maclean's historiographical legacy covers various aspects of British history as he actively worked on key events of World War II and Russian history. Maclean's first encounter with Georgians occurred between 1934 and 1937 while working at the British Embassy in Paris. During this time, he met the renowned Mdivani family and even conducted a brief romantic relationship with one of its members, Rusudan (Rosy) Mdivani. In 1937, Maclean voluntarily transferred to the British Embassy in the Soviet Union. While in Moscow, he combined his diplomatic career with travel, exploring the Caucasus and Central Asia. Fitzroy Maclean visited Georgia several times, first in 1937 and again in 1939. His observations and accounts serve as valuable historical sources, as foreign visitors faced significant restrictions on movement and communication within Soviet republics during the repressive 1930s. Maclean was one of the first British researchers to study Joseph Stalin's personality by delving into details of his childhood. He frequently visited Gori and other locations connected to Stalin's early life. During World War II, Fitzroy Maclean played an active role on the North African and Balkan fronts. He is also regarded as one of the founders of the renowned British special forces unit, the Special Air Service (SAS).