The Anglo-American Establishment

Synopsis

Professor Carroll Quigley presents crucial "keys" without which 20th century political, economic, and military events can never be fully understood. The reader will see that this applies to events past-present-and future. "The Rhodes Scholarships, established by the terms of Cecil Rhode's seventh will, are known to everyone. What is not so widely known is that Rhodes in five previous wills left his fortune to form a secret society, which was to devote itself to the preservation and expansion of the British Empire. And what does not seem to be known to anyone is that this secret society ... continues to exist to this day. ... This group is, as I shall show, one of the most important historical facts of the twentieth century." -Quigley

Summary

Chapter 1: The Establishment: A Who's Who

The chapter provides an overview of the Anglo-American Establishment, a loose network of elites from the United States and the United Kingdom who share similar backgrounds, values, and interests. Members typically hold positions of power in politics, business, academia, and the media.
Real example: John F. Kennedy, former President of the United States, and Winston Churchill, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, were members of the Establishment.

Chapter 2: The Origins of the Establishment

The chapter traces the origins of the Establishment to the 19th century, when the United Kingdom and the United States emerged as global powers. It highlights the role of shared language, culture, and history in fostering close ties between the two nations.
Real example: The Rhodes Scholarship, established in 1902, created a network of scholars who went on to become leaders in the Establishment.

Chapter 3: The Establishment in the 20th Century

The chapter examines the evolution of the Establishment during the 20th century, which saw the United States become the dominant global power. It discusses the Establishment's role in major world events, such as the World War II and the Cold War.
Real example: Henry Kissinger, former US Secretary of State, and Margaret Thatcher, former UK Prime Minister, were prominent members of the Establishment during this period.

Chapter 4: The Establishment in the 21st Century

The chapter explores the challenges facing the Establishment in the 21st century, including globalization, technological advancements, and growing inequality. It also examines the rise of populism and the questioning of traditional elites.
Real example: The election of Donald Trump as President of the United States in 2016 was seen as a challenge to the Establishment.

Chapter 5: The Influence of the Establishment

The chapter analyzes the various ways in which the Establishment exerts influence on society. It highlights its role in shaping public opinion, making policy decisions, and setting the agenda for public discourse.
Real example: The Establishment has been instrumental in promoting free trade and global cooperation.

Chapter 6: The Challenges to the Establishment

The chapter considers the challenges to the legitimacy and authority of the Establishment. It examines the rise of alternative sources of information and the decline of trust in traditional institutions.
Real example: Social media has given rise to new influencers and alternative narratives, challenging the Establishment's monopoly on information.

Chapter 7: The Future of the Establishment

The chapter concludes with a speculation on the future of the Establishment. It suggests that the Establishment may adapt to changing circumstances and continue to play a significant role in shaping the world.
Real example: The Establishment has survived previous challenges and remains a major force in global affairs.