New Zealand perceptions of America: The teaching of American history/American studies in New Zealand universities

New Zealand perceptions of the United States and Americans come from several sources. World War II views of the United States as the savior of that country began to change in the Vietnam War era and have worsened in the 1980s over the Nuclear ship controversy. The author has probed the teaching og United States History/ American Studies for evidence of the current state of New Zealand perceptions among university professors and their students. He contends that the teaching of United States history in New Zealand both reflects and molds attitudes about America and Americans. Study of America is popular among students. Their media-dominated views are usually changed by academic study of the states. There is evidence of differing views of America among New Zealand generations. The author maintains that study of the United States is neglected in New Zealand.