Introduction

Jimmy Carter's presidency (1977–81) was defined by the collapse of détente, ‘oil shocks’ that weakened a troubled Western economy, and humiliation during the Iranian hostage crisis (1979–81). A concern for human rights was a significant feature of Carter's agenda. This was articulated in his inaugural address and in his speech at the University of Notre Dame a few months later. While this commitment is subject to debate in the historiography, it certainly afforded an opportunity to Irish–American politicians and lobbyists. Anglo-American relations saw an upturn in fortunes, Carter enjoying a cordial relationship with James Callaghan, the British Prime Minister (1976–9). Although there was some disappointment with the later advent of a Conservative British government, the administration made efforts to welcome the new Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher (1979–90), to ensure that this sentiment was not obvious or damaging. The Carter epoch showed continuing close ties between the US and the UK. This was evident, for example, when the British acquired Trident as a successor to the Polaris programme in 1980. Notably, Carter only references Ireland once in his diary, and then only tongue-in-cheek: ‘Mother called me from Ireland. She's really having a good time and would like to stay longer. She said if she could stay an extra month she could resolve the problem between the Catholics and Protestants.’ Similarly, the issue is also ignored in the recollections of key figures in his administration.

As the previous chapter demonstrated, the American executive branch had placed little pressure on the British government in relation to Northern Ireland. In contrast, as a candidate for the US presidency, Carter made statements about Northern Ireland that irritated the British government and gave hope to Irish–Americans, with Carter casting the British as the villain of the piece. For instance, as a presidential candidate, he walked down Fifth Avenue in New York City on St Patrick's Day in 1976 wearing a lapel badge bearing the slogan ‘Get Britain out of Ireland.’ As President, Carter made a 1977 statement on the issue that promised American investment if the British and Irish governments were able to achieve a powersharing agreement. But he also infuriated the British government with his deference to Congress over the suspension of the sale of arms to the RUC.