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.

While some may dispute that economics is the driving force behind much of history, nobody can argue that trade is not a significant factor in international relations. In an increasingly globalised world, products are perpetually crossing borders, leading to both political and fiscal conflicts. Businesses have to face diverse markets and regions while worrying about protectionist government initiatives that hamper free trade. Even the ostensible champion of free markets, America, has its own streak of inhibiting the flow of goods; witness the recent steel tariffs which have angered European partners. No society, therefore, is immune to the pressures of world trade and the need to balance the free movement of products with the desire to preserve domestic industries. This book assembles a collection of articles examining some of the most current and divisive issues in the international trade arena. They range from the tensions between the United States and Mexico in NAFTA to the war-fuelled trade in diamonds in Africa. With such a broad range of issues discussed, this book serves as a needed tool for understanding the most important contemporary economic subjects.