Foreign relations: EFTA and attempts to join the EEC; relations with and policies towards USA and USSR; debates over the nuclear deterrent; Korean War; Suez; the 'Winds of Change' and decolonisation
Between 1951 and 1964, Britain struggled to define its place in the world. It fought in Korea, humiliated itself at Suez, began losing its empire, and repeatedly tried — and failed — to join Europe.
Real World
The 1956 Suez Crisis ended with Britain and France being forced to withdraw by US financial pressure — not military defeat — revealing that Britain could no longer act as a great power without American approval.
Exam Focus
Treat Suez as a turning point: always explain the outcome (US-forced withdrawal) and its consequence (accelerated decolonisation, damaged Anglo-American relations).
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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