Fighting with America

Australia has long been a reliable ally of the United States. But has it become too reliable? Sixty-five years after the signing of the ANZUS treaty, and amid great strategic change caused by the rise of China, it is time for a fresh look at the Australian–American alliance. In Fighting with America, historian James Curran argues that the current intensity in Canberra’s relations with Washington has led Americans and Australians to forget past disagreements between the two nations. As the alliance becomes more focused on Asia, Australian and American interests will sometimes coincide — other times they may clash.

Fighting with America is available to purchase from all good bookstores ($9.99) and online. An e-book version ($6.99) is also available. The Lowy Institute's Bligh Street headquarters has a limited number of copies available for purchase at our reception.

Contents

Preface.............................................................. ix

Introduction...................................................... 1

1. A new intensity............................................. 16

2. Asia first....................................................... 47

3. Divergence and disappointment.................... 82

4. What kind of ally should Australia be?........... 115

Endnotes.......................................................... 127

Acknowledgements........................................... 147

Photo: Flickr/US Navy

James Curran introduces his Lowy Institute Paper.