ABSTRACT
Dirk U. Stikker appreciated the significance of the common history, institutions, and values shared by Western Europe and North America. It was generally anticipated that Stikker's appointment as NATO's third secretary-general would signal a return to Lord Ismay's leadership style of solid administration and behind-the-scenes conciliation. Stikker would be briefed by the heads of each department, before each Council meeting, the Staff/Secretariat and chairman of the alliance, which with his aides, he carefully coordinated and planned. Despite his open and easy connection to Washington, Stikker did not enjoy much more than a formal relationship with the American permanent representative. In spite of the inherent antagonism, Stikker made a genuine effort to maintain a working relationship with France. Throughout his term, he repeatedly cautioned against any relaxation of vigilance and strength, despite the beginnings of the Sino-Soviet rift and the first signs of détente, of which he was dubious.
