Anglo-American Relations in Maritime Perspective, 1775–1991

Challenging students to rethink the so-called ‘special relationship’ through a maritime lens
HMS Sussex firing, image courtesy of Frank Gregory

HMS Sussex firing, image courtesy of Frank Gregory

This module introduces students to the major themes of the history of British and American maritime strategy, naval competition, and international co-operation between 1775 and 1991. It challenges students to rethink the so-called ‘special relationship’ through a maritime lens, while providing an exploration of naval history and international relations since the beginning of the American Revolution.

Summary of module content

  • Sea Power and the American Revolution
  • Birth of the United States Navy
  • The Quasi War
  • The War of 1812
  • Sea Power in the ‘British World System’
  • The American Civil War
  • Anglo-American Rapprochement, 1865-1914
  • Naval Technology and Arms Races
  • The First World War
  • The Paris Peace Conference
  • The League of Nations
  • The Conference System in the Inter-War Years
  • The Second World War
  • The United Nations
  • The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation
  • The Cold War
  • The Falklands War