Ambrose99: I believe Otto von Bismarck noted the strategic implications arising from the fact that the U.S. and Britain share a common language in order to warn Germans against being militarily and territorially  ambitious to an extent they would come into conflict with Britain, which he felt would no doubt be aided by America's growing demographic, economic and  - in the late 19th century - potential military might. Two world wars might have been avoided had Germans heeded the advice of their Iron Chancellor. The importance of ties linking wealthy and important nations that share a common language, legal system and an interconnected history shouldn't be underestimated.