Britain's role in world wars, and US-Europe relations

The Syrian decision in the UK Parliament last week is being seen by some as a potential turning point for Britain's role in the world.

Radio 4 Today's Jim Naughtie looks back from the post-World War ll era to today, and Britain's involvement - or lack of - in world disputes, and its changing transatlantic and European relations over the years.

Archive clips draw on moments in history, including Suez, Vietnam, the Cold War, Iran, Afghanistan and up to Syrian issues today, with the words of prime ministers from the last six decades.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Monday 2 September 2013.