The Caribbean and Central America

Book excerpt: Over the course of its history, the United States has taken great interest in the affairs of its neighbours to the south. From the Monroe Doctrine to Grenada to illegal immigration, America has been and continues to be an active force in the lives of Caribbean and Central American nations. In recent years, the relationships have taken an economic turn as witnessed by several pacts like the Caribbean Basin Initiative and NAFTA, meant to balance the US-dominated relations with these closely-packed countries. In addition, the US has had an enigmatic history with Mexico, involving issues like immigration, drug smuggling, and human rights. The public friendship between Presidents George W Bush and Vicente Fox increased optimism for smooth resolutions of US-Mexican financial and political concerns. However, some friction has remained over American border and security worries, water-usage disputes, and the continual problem of narcotics trafficking. This book compiles a series of analyses of the varied initiatives and governmental actions linking the US to its nearest southern neighbours. present status, and evaluated for potential outcomes. Such comprehensive studies combined in one book make for a necessary resource in attempting to assess the future course of relations among the Americas.