Funny enough, here in God's own land of Caledonia we often have discussions about why the English are not popular in mainland Europe.
I've travelled throughout and worked in Europe and it DOES make a difference when the local folk learn that you are a Scot.
I think most of my American friends hate the same things about their country as I do ie Bush, IMF, World Bank, Disney Chanell etc.
I also hope that they despise the same things about UK as I do. ie
Thatcherism, Blairism(only the spelling is different), tabloids,
Royals etc.
Maybe, we should promote what we like about each other. Second thoughts, maybe not: The Yanks get far too slushy sentimental when they do that!