THE ANGLO-AMERICAN ESTABLISHMENT
“The Anglo-American Establishment” by Carroll Quigley provides an in-depth look at the secretive group of influential individuals in Britain and the United States who sought to shape global politics and maintain British imperial power through a network of elite institutions and influential figures.
–“the british empire had ‘lost it’s steam’ in world war one and the british felt that the german ascent would displace the british empire in global influence if the british did not compete against it.”–Dr Brad
The Secret Society:
Origins: Quigley discusses the formation of a secret society by Cecil Rhodes, an influential British imperialist, aimed at preserving and expanding the British Empire. Rhodes’s vision included creating a global network to exert influence over world affairs.
Structure: This society, often referred to as the “Round Table Group,” consisted of key figures from British politics, banking, and academia. It operated through semi-secret organizations and sought to wield significant influence over British and international policy.
Notable Members:
Alfred Milner: Quigley highlights the role of Alfred Milner, a prominent British statesman, who became a leading figure in the Round Table movement after Rhodes’s death. Milner’s efforts were pivotal in promoting British imperial interests.
Lord Esher, Lord Lothian, Lionel Curtis, and Others: The book profiles various members who contributed to the group’s activities and spread its influence through various institutions, including the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House) and the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) in the United States.
Institutions and Influence:
Educational and Policy Influence: The group used institutions like Oxford and Cambridge to groom future leaders aligned with their vision. They also influenced policy-making bodies and international relations through think tanks and advisory roles.
International Relations: Quigley details how this network influenced British and American foreign policies, particularly in the early 20th century, including during World War I and the interwar period.
World War I and Aftermath:
War Strategy: The Round Table’s influence on British war strategy and post-war reconstruction efforts is examined. Their vision for a post-war world included establishing the League of Nations to promote global governance and prevent future conflicts.
Anglo-American Cooperation: A significant part of the group’s strategy involved fostering close ties between Britain and the United States to ensure mutual dominance in global affairs.
Critique and Legacy:
Criticism of Methods: Quigley is critical of the group’s secretive methods and the lack of transparency in their efforts to manipulate political outcomes. He argues that their undemocratic approach undermined genuine democratic processes.
Enduring Impact: Despite his critique, Quigley acknowledges the significant impact this network had on shaping 20th-century international relations and their lasting influence on contemporary global politics.
Conclusion
Carroll Quigley’s “The Anglo-American Establishment” provides a thorough examination of a secretive and influential network that sought to shape global affairs through strategic alliances and institutional control. The book uncovers the ambitions, methods, and enduring legacy of this elite group, offering a critical perspective on their role in world history.