Did Britain Feel Shame and Lose Face When Asking for Help from the US in WW2 as a Former Colony?

Some might argue that Britain should have felt shame during World War II when the United States eventually offered aid. However, this sentiment overlooks the complex and multifaceted nature of the relationship between the two countries during that period. Let's delve into the intricacies of this relationship and the reasons behind Britain's actions.

Why America's Delay in Entry into WWII Was Not Justified

One common argument is that Britain had a reason to be ashamed because America entered WWII late, despite being in the first world war. However, this critique is misguided. America only joined WW2 following the attack on Pearl Harbor, two years after the war had begun. At the beginning, the Battle of Britain had already shown significant fortitude and tenacity.

It is a well-documented fact that Churchill, the British Prime Minister at the time, did not formally ask the US for assistance. It was more about the strategic and political moves made by the US, which were motivated by desperation to become the world's most powerful nation post-war. This was evident in their actions during and after the war, particularly in the dismantling of the British Empire and the attempts to leverage their involvement as both a creditor and a benefactor.

Political Tensions and the 'Former Colony' Stigma

The idea of Britain being a former colony of the US creates a narrative that suggests the US took advantage of the situation. However, the reality is not so simple. The US was more than willing to capitalize on the British Empire's declining power and the desperation of their allies. Churchill, despite his mixed feelings about the US, believed that their contributions were necessary for the war effort. However, his mother being American made him less wary of American influence.

The mistrust of Americans, expressed by many in the Conservative Party, was not unfounded. As seen in the historical context, the US had a long-standing reputation of being against the British Empire, a sentiment that persisted well into the 20th century. This was reflected in their actions, such as the controversial history of their manoeuvring over British Honduras.

The Post-War Demands from the US

Following the war, the US under Truman demanded substantial repayment for their assistance. This was a form of leverage and a noticeable shift in the relationship. While some in Britain saw this as a necessary evil, it was clear that the US was not entirely altruistic. Instead, their involvement came with significant conditions that sought to dismantle the remnants of the British Empire.

The Marshall Plan, initiated by the US to rebuild European nations post-war, was a double-edged sword. While it brought economic prosperity to Europe, it also brought significant financial obligations to the UK. The perception of the Marshall Plan as something that happened somewhere else showcases the one-sided nature of the 'Special Relationship' that developed post-war.

The Long-Term Implications

The relationship between Britain and America in WWII had long-term implications for both nations. The decline of the British Empire was inevitable, but the way in which this happened due to American pressure was a significant blow. The desire of the British to maintain a sense of pride and independence was sorely tested. The cultural closeness between the original thirteen states of America and the British Empire only underscored the reasons behind the US' actions against Britain.

The delusion that the US would support Britain's desires after the war highlights the flaws in such thinking. The relationship with the US after the war was characterized by a one-sided dynamic, where Britain was essentially coerced into accepting financial obligations and political conditions that compromised its sovereignty.

It is clear that the relationship between Britain and the US during WWII was complex, involving a mix of strategic interests, power dynamics, and a long-standing ideological conflict. Britain did not feel a loss of face or shame for seeking help from the US during the war. Rather, it was a pragmatic response to a desperate situation, with the understanding that the US would impose significant terms.