North Africa: Calculus of Policy

Abstract

The North African littoral assumed special im portance for the United States after the landing of American forces in November 1942. While the strategic-military weight assigned to the area by the West declined after 1956, with the growth of local nationalist movements and the relinquish ment of French protectorate authority over Morocco and Tunisia, North Africa has acquired a unique political and economic significance and relevance for Western interests. The United States, for its part, has sought to support the nation-building efforts of local governments without undue regard to their political philosophies or foreign policy orienta tions. Measured in pragmatic as well as historic terms, the American contribution has been both constructive and enduring.