Since World War II the idea of an Anglo-American "special relationship" has become a standard component of the political lexicon. This text provides an overview of Anglo-American relations since 1960 assessing the importance of cultural and historical connections and of wartime and Cold War collaboration and the impact of increased European integration and of US-UK tensions over Ireland. While not symmetrical in its importance to the parties, the author argues that the relationship was "special" for both although it is likely to be less so in the 21st century.