George Kennan was an American diplomat and historian, best known for his role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War. He is particularly famous for his "Long Telegram" in 1946, which outlined the strategy of containment to counter the influence of the Soviet Union. His ideas significantly influenced U.S. actions in Europe and Asia during this period. Kennan served as the U.S. ambassador to the Soviet Union and later to Yugoslavia. He was a prominent advocate for diplomacy and dialogue over military confrontation, emphasizing the importance of understanding Soviet Union motivations. His insights remain relevant in discussions about international relations today.