Researcher ORCID Identifier

0009-0004-9242-0164

Graduation Year

2025

Date of Submission

4-2025

Document Type

Open Access Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

International Relations

Reader 1

Hicham Bou Nassif

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Rights Information

2025 Austin G Andersen

Abstract

This thesis examines the historical development and future trajectory of the longstanding relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It traces its roots back to the early twentieth century, during which the Kingdom was established officially and the United States was on the hunt for a substance that quickly became one of the world’s most precious commodities–oil. Since then, oil has both acted as a binding force and a point of contention between the two nations. However, through ups and downs in the partnership, oil has remained at the heart of the arrangement. This study follows the development of US-Saudi ties over the past century with a particular focus on the transformational shifts of the past two decades. It uses economic data and diplomatic negotiations to suggest that the once-cozy relationship will continue becoming more transactional rather than steadfast as it was historically. Recent developments like the rise of Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s increased international relevance, and shifting US narratives are a special focus. This thesis argues that the US-Saudi bargain is at a turning point, undergoing a fundamental change that will have enormous consequences in the future considering the tumultuous geopolitical environment of the mid-2020s.

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