OBJECTIVE

In this lesson you will discover the role that sea power and naval development played in America’s plans to develop an empire.

 The Great White Fleet leaving San Francisco

GUIDING QUESTIONS

1. How does a nation build an empire?
2. What are the key factors needed for a nation to become a “world power”?
3. To what degree do you think a countries military strength determines her success?  To your knowledge did the United States have a strong military at the turn of the 20^th Century? 

4. What is the best way for a country to build a military?
    

DISCUSSION

At the end of the 20^th Century the United States had solidified itself as a major player in world affairs.  Expansion within North America was progressing nicely and our relatively young country was at turning point.  Our gains during the Spanish-American War gave us the beginnings of a real empire but how to hold on to them?  How do you protect what you have?  How do you make what you have GROW? 

Build a navy that would be the envy of the world!  And that is exactly what the United States set out to do!

The Constitution of the United States, ratified in 1789, empowered Congress "to provide and maintain a navy." Acting on this authority, Congress ordered the construction and manning of six frigates in 1794, and the War Department administered naval affairs from that year until Congress established the Department of the Navy on April 30, 1798.

Alfred Mahan was a naval strategist and historian who lived from 1840-1914.  Mahan studied Roman history and then wrote a book in which he wrote that the success of the Roman Empire had been shaped by its control of the sea.  Mahan developed his interpretation into The Influence of Sea Power upon History, 1660-1783 (1890), which became the single most influential book on strategy and foreign policy in his time. He argued that naval power resulted from geographical position, excess production, proper national character, and a supportive government.  By reading Mahan, you will better understand the outcome of U.S. Navy engagements between 1890 and 1920.  One of many believers of Mahan’s writing was President Teddy Roosevelt.  Roosevelt was president from

Assignment 3.02 - Part II - American Sets Sail

Research the writings of Alfred Mahan.  Use the links provided below for information. 

http://college.hmco.com/history/readerscomp/rcah/html/ah_055600_mahanalfredt.htm

http://www.u-s-history.com/pages/h811.html

http://www.mtholyoke.edu/acad/intrel/protected/alfred.htm

1. Answer the questions below in a Word document paying particular attention Mahan’s views on the role of the navy in establishing a country as a world power.  Each answer should be 2-3 sentences. 
2. Go to Assignment Area and click “View/Complete Assignment” for “3.02 – America Sets Sail”.  Attach your Word Document and click Submit.
3. Go to the Discussion Board and click on the forum “DB3.1 Mahan – Influence of Sea Power”.  Copy your response to Question #3 from below and paste it into A NEW THREAD.  Then respond to at least one other students thread (don’t forget about extra credit opportunity).

Questions:

1.        According to Mahan, what are the primary purposes for a country to develop a navy?

2.        Mahan also advocated for expanded colonization of overseas lands.  What was his rational for this belief?

3.        Mahan believed that a large navy would serve to reduce the need for war!  Why do you think he held this opinion?  Do you agree with his view?  Why or why not?  Make sure to support your answer.