Etiquette and Defining Protocol

Benjamin Franklin at Versailles – Protocol sets the rules for seating groups of important people at a banquet, or for addressing dignitaries, or even for proper dress at ceremonies in foreign countries. 

Protocol and striped pants gave late- American, President Harry Truman, a "pain in the neck.” Few people in government would disagree with his sentiments, but protocol seems to he needed. Protocol is the code of diplomatic etiquette. It sets the rules for seating groups of important people at a banquet, or for addressing dignitaries, or even for proper dress at ceremonies in foreign countries. 

Protocol has been around for a long time. When Benjamin Franklin arrived at the court of Versailles, wigless and dressed in an old coat, he learned quickly that elegant court uniform was a must if he wanted to make a proper impression for the new "American Republic." – The Desert Sun, 1975

Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia