Presidents and prime ministers : United Kingdon-United States: 'Special Relationship' during the 1960's

Abstract

The primary focus of the paper is upon the political nature of the relationship, specifically the role of the political actors and highest political offices. The designated time period of the paper necessitates beginning in the midst of political terms of office rather than at the commencement of terms. However, this affords a unique examination of the relationship over a definable time period rather than an overview of particular political careers. The secondary focus of the paper is to determine a specific definition of the special relationship. Although the definition of the term special relationship is crucial to comprehension of the importance of the political relationship, a large majority of British and American scholars have neglected to define the term. The questions that have shaped the paper are as follows: What is the relationship that has been maintained between the United States and the United Kingdom? Who has maintained the relationship? Why is the "Special Relationship" so special? Where is this relationship taking the United States and the United Kingdom? Answers to these questions are highly relevant and necessary to understanding our significance as Americans, Britons and citizens of a global community.