When Yuri Andropov became leader of the Soviet Union in 1982, the Cold War escalated. Andropov, previously leader of the KGB, was known for his brutal suppression of dissidents.
Across the world newspapers ran front-page articles about the threat to the stability of the West including Time Magazine which published a cover page on Andropov.
This attracted the attention of Samantha Smith, a 10 year old from Maine, USA.
She decided to write a letter to Mr Andropov congratulating him on his new job.
She expressed her worry about nuclear war and asked him why he wanted to conquer her country, pleading with him to live at peace.
Surprisingly, Andropov replied to Samantha in a letter explaining Soviet history and his country’s desire for peace for all people of the world.
He invited Samantha and her parents to come for a visit which she accepted.
Samantha spent much of her time with other children at a Soviet camp.
Soviet media followed her every step, she spoke at press conferences, participated in a documentary and endeared herself to the Soviet people.
Her trip inspired other exchanges of goodwill child ambassadors.
Samantha wrote a book “Journey to the Soviet Union” in which she describes the Russian people as ‘just like us’.
Samantha’s life was cut short at only thirteen when she and her father died in a plane crash.
Her death was mourned on both sides of the Atlantic.
She was eulogised in Moscow as a champion of peace. Monuments, stamps, schools, streets and a ship were all named in her honour.
A child who took action by writing a letter changed international relations.
Never underestimate the small actions can you take to make a difference in this world.
By Linda Gray
