The role of the straits in development of Turkish-American relations after the II. World War

Turkish Straits have always maintained their value both geopolitically and strategically and in terms of international transportation. Therefore, while Turkish Straits are the most significant target of all powerful states which wish to dominate the region, they also became the political means of the countries which control this region. The global powers have been striving for dominance or privilege on Turkish Straits and Black Sea for approximately 2.5 centuries. During this period, even though various solutions were found out for the problems related to Turkish Straits, the realization of such solutions has been a very difficult process. Because, all such solutions affected the balance of interests related to the region reversely. Through these interests, the ones who were once friends would become enemies or vice versa.The aim of this thesis is to bring up how Turkish-American relations that started in 1946, developed in the frame of the Middle East events and the straits especially after the II. World War. After the war, because of the tension in its relations with the Soviets, Turkey inclined towards a policy to strengthen its current relations especially with the U.S.A. in order to form a joint power league against the Soviets. Soviet Russia asked for some demands from Turkey to reach Mediterranean Sea. (This was their historical but never achieved aim.) But, Turkish Republic reacted these demands which put in danger her independence and unity.