I do agree that if you treat people with respect, you get respect in return. A lot of the conversations I had, especially with Europeans, were with people who didn't know I was American. (I usually travel on a German passport -- can go more places.) As such, the conversations were not the ones most Americans would have there.

I also agree that the hatred is not universal, but it is enough that it is obvious. I also have many friends in Europe who truly like Americans -- they chuckle over our idiocyncrocies. I don't think I've ever met anyone in Denmark who dislikes Americans. Ditto the Netherlands. I've not been in the Eastern Bloc nations since communism failed, so have no clue what their feelings are.

As to my comments on WWII, they come from dual sources -- talking to people and taking history in Germany, France and England as a child. Some are very grateful we actually came and fought, they just don't want to hear that we Yanks "saved them." The books in the 50s were pretty specific that Britain and France, et al., could have defeated Germany without outside aid had they had the equipment (guns, ammo, tanks, planes) -- they did not need the extra men. I also remember getting into huge trouble when I made this statement when I came to the States and went to school here.

And, Muncle, going to a pub or bistro where Yanks hang out is bound to get those who like Americans as patrons. It is much more interesting to go to a pub that is 99% German or British or whatever and just sit back and listen. You might be surprised about some of the comments made. (My spoken German is atrocious, but I understand it quite well.)