UK-US Special Relationship In The Post-Cold War Era

Prior to 1939, there was almost no hint of anything special for the UK-US relationship. During World War II, in the struggle against fascism, the "UK-US special relationship" was initially established, to a large extent due to joint efforts of Roosevelt and Churchill. In 1946, Churchill openly used the term in his "iron curtain" speech, marking the formal establishment of the UK-US special relationship. In the Cold War era, the relationship prospered, especially after two "honeymoons" and had been one of the hallmarks of this period.However, after the Cold War, with the passing of common enemy, a debate concerning this issue arises: Whether the UK-US relationship is still special? The author holds a positive view on this issue, and proves this point by listing aspects of post-Cold War UK-US special relationship. These aspects include joint military actions and military technology cooperation, close economic intercourse, cooperation in the field of intelligence, diplomatic cooperation, academic connections and others. These aspects clearly prove that the two countries' relationship remains special and has even prospered in the post-Cold War era.Then what are the reasons for the maintenance or even prosperity of the UK-US special relationship? Firstly, the special relationship is in the two countries' mutual interests. Other reasons are as follows: economic factors, historical and cultural elements, political and diplomatic needs, and personal friendship of leaders from both countries.On the other hand, although their relationship is quite special, the two counties are facing many problems after the Cold War, for example, differences exist between them;Britain may have to choose to be strong with the US or the EU;America may look for new partners and so on. But these problems do not reverse the fact that post-Cold War UK-US relationship is still special.This thesis intends to make it clear that the post-Cold War UK-US relationship is still special, by reviewing the historical background, introducing the status quo, andgiving reasons for the current situation. Meanwhile, the author also points out in this thesis the problems facing the UK-US special relationship, predicts its future development, and also gives some suggestions to improve the special relationship.