When the 20th century opened, Britain dominated world affairs, and America stood on the sidelines. Now their positions are reversed. This is the story of how it happened.

This is Part 6 of David Dimbleby's much acclaimed 1988 documentary in seven parts on British-American relations in the 20th century. Dimbleby explores the relationship between Great Britain and the United States from World War I to the 1980s and examines the people, ideas, and events that have shaped the mutual history of the two nations.

In this episode: Britain cooperates with the United States during the Cuban Missile Crisis but avoids involvement in Vietnam.

Harold Macmillan was determined to restore relations between Britain and America after the catastrophe of Suez. The launch of Russia's Sputnik was his opportunity: America needed nuclear bases in Europe, and Britain was prepared to offer them. But the atmosphere of goodwill was soured by Vietnam.

American Secretary of State Dean Rusk put heavy pressure on Britain to send a token force in support. The British Government refused, to Rusk's dismay. 'When the Russians invade Sussex,' he said to one journalist, 'don't expect us to come and help you.'

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An Ocean Apart

Eminent British television journalist David Dimbleby presents this seven-part BBC documentary TV series from 1988 on the history of British-American relations from the beginning of the First World War and Wilson to the end of the Cold War and Thatcher. Produced by Adam Curtis.

Presented By: David Dimbleby
Editor: David Gladwell
Executive Producer: George Carey
Producer: Adam Curtis
Production assistant: Linda Parker

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