I lived there for 5 years, left one year ago. If it is any consolation to you - the situation is worse in continental Europe, where I am now living. The intensity of negative feelings toward Bush is intense, and it has long since impacted general sentiments towards Americans. I wish I could say I don't give a xxxx, but I do. Perhaps most disappointing is the attitude of Eastern Europeans - who have quickly forgotten how and why the wall came down. They have not only joined the EU, but also the "Hate America" Bandwagon. I did read somewhere recently that Poles supported Bush over Kerry - can't confirm this as I haven't been there recently - but if they did they are the exception even in Central/Eastern Europe.I am left thinking that the current Anti-Americanism was latent, and waiting to come out - the roots are complex, but based in simple insecurity and jealousy. Bush is simply a likely catalyst, as his style does not appeal to European elitists. (A politiciian who says what he thinks, and does what he ssays...he m u s t be dumb!)
By the way, your starting comment is not the least bit incongruous (SP?) to me, on a personal level I also found the English people to be the most polite and charming on earth. Also - given the entirely accurate background you have just described - I think most AMericans have no idea just how far Tony Blair went out on a limb in supporting Bush in the war against overwhelming public opinion against it. He deserves a huge amount of creeit in my opinion . and in fact he has presented the case for the war with a much more convincing manner than the US President.