Memory constitutes an important part of how we view international partnerships. Past victories, defeats and joint endeavours contribute to a feeling of allegiance and friendship. Moreover, historical memory plays a role for the legitimation of international politics "because historical references frequently evoke the perceived lessons of the past experience, political actors can use historical metaphors to legitimize certain policy options and to delegitimize others" (Paris, 2002, p. 429). Thus, memory can provide legitimacy, identity, and authority. The transatlantic partnership has understood itself as more than a mere military, political or economic alliance from its inception. It is often underscored by decision-makers on both sides of the Atlantic that it is a community built on common values and a shared past.
The terror attacks on September 11, 2001 led to an outpouring of European solidarity towards its American partner. While Europeans supported the military intervention in Afghanistan, the transatlantic unity faltered during the run-up to the war in Iraq. This paper explores German, French, and American government officials' statements from 9/11 to President Bush's well-known declaration of "mission accomplished" on May 1, 2003. The analysis will examine how the governments of Germany, France, and the United States have used memory to legitimise their political positions and decisions. I argue that while transnational memory patterns were employed during the military intervention in Afghanistan, especially in Europe, the Iraq War led to a refocusing and often re-nationalisation of memories.
