Western Europe and the United States: The Uncertain Alliance

In this study of European American relations, originally published in 1984, the author demonstrates that many of the contentious issues of the 1980s have their origins in the roots of the ‘Atlantic partnership’ which emerged during the 1950s. The book undertakes two tasks which are essential to an understanding of European American relations. Firstly, it reviews the elements of continuity and change which have characterised transatlantic dealings since 1945, and the complexities which have baffled both academic analysts and policy makers. Secondly, it dissects the central parts of the relationship in order to isolate and highlight some of the most significant developmental factors. In doing so, it explores the many levels on which European American relations can be identified – as part of a global system, as a regional or Atlantic phenomenon, or even as part of the domestic politics of the countries involved. It also draws attention to the key issues around which European American links revolve – the problems of the Atlantic alliance, the development of economic issues and the conflicts of ideas. Finally, the book looks at the ways in which European American relations are conducted – the channels of influence which have at various times expressed US dominance and European recovery, ‘special relationships’ and strained relationships. This will be of interest both to the student looking for a concise introduction to the major issues in European American relations and to the non-specialist with an interest international developments.