The Ambiguities of Power: British Foreign Policy Since 1945

Using formerly secret government documents and independent sources, this historical study argues for a radically revised understanding of Post-war British foreign policy. Dr Curtis shows that, contrary to the impression usually conveyed by both academic writing and press coverage, British policy, in both intention and effect, had been far removed from the principles it has conventionally been assumed to be based upon: the pursuit of peace, the promotion of democracy and human rights, and the relief of poverty. The book covers the whole of the post-war period. It examines British foreigh policy planners’ aims abd interventions in a host of Third World countries, as well as looking at the special relationship with the United States. The study is brought up to date with an examination of the war against Iraq, policy towards Indonesia/East Timor and Britain’s role in the new Pax Americana.