Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses the economic and security issues about which many leaders of the United States and Western Europe have conflicting views; and points out the concerns Europeans have regarding the US approach to the Third World. It focuses on the health of the Atlantic alliance which he considers the foundation of the US-West European relationship. The book presents a longitudinal analysis of public opinion regarding solutions to alliance security problems. It provides historical background regarding selected events which in one way or another have affected the evolution of American-European relations. The book examines the period from 1945 to 1961 with special emphasis on interactions between the governments of Great Britain and the United States which led to the latter's taking over the leadership role.