Geopolitics from above: A review of US-Turkey bilateral relations, 1947-2006

Abstract

This paper analyzes geopolitical changes and continuity in bilateral relations between Turkey and the United States from the Truman Doctrine in 1947 to the present. While the relationship was referred to as an “alliance” during the Cold War, established with a common interest in containing the Soviet Union, the post–Cold War era posed important challenges and transformed the relationship into a “strategic partnership.” The post–September 11 era has put the viability of the strategic partnership under scrutiny: relations between the two countries have been going through a crisis, especially under the impact of the United States’ war on Iraq from March 2003 on. Bilateral U.S.–Turkish relations in this era have evolved from a “strategic partnership” to a “partnership for democracy and war on terrorism” in the greater Middle East.