The ‘Special Relationship’ and Grand Strategy

Every country strives to develop and implement grand strategy—the marshalling of all available tools of national power towards a clear objective. Yet, every country struggles to do so given the panoply of challenges, pressures, and interests. 

In the ‘Special Relationship’ with the United Kingdom, the United States has had outsized influence since the Second World War as Washington’s power, capabilities, and reach grew. How this affected London’s pursuit of its own grand strategy is the subject of Dr. William James’ new book ‘British Grand Strategy in the Age of American Hegemony’ (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2024).

James joins CSPC on 11 April to discuss his book and will argue that British politicians and officials have thought in grand strategic terms under American hegemony - even if they do not realise or admit to this. James also demonstrates that the role of allies in shaping British grand strategy has been overstated. Moreover, James highlights the conditions under which domestic political actors can influence grand strategic decision-making. 

The book will be released in the US on 29 April 2024 and can be ordered here (use the code ASFLYQ6 for a 30% discount). The e-book will also be available for $9.99 from 29 April. 

He will be in conversation with Joshua C. Huminski, CSPC’s Senior Vice President for National Security and Intelligence Programs.