This is the story of the twelve important years during which the U.S. Navy won an undisputed place as a major force in the Pacific, and a consideration of the interrelationship of naval and diplomatic policies which brought this about.
Professor Braisted's highly readable study covers an area of American naval history which, to a considerable degree, has been neglected, minimized, or misinterpreted. With sound scholarship and imaginative insight he relates in detail the conquest of Hawaii and the Philippines, the Boxer Rebellion and our Open-Door policy in China, the Russo-Japanese War, the maturation of the diplomatic policy of the United States in the Pacific area, and, finally, relations between America and a newly imperialistic Japan, climaxed by Theodore Roosevelt's "Big Stick" Navy world cruise, pointing toward events of the first and second world wars.
American diplomatic history too often has been written without adequate attention to economic, military, intellectual, and other motivating factors behind foreign policy, and the study of our naval history too often has been limited to a narrow consideration of wars and campaigns without attention to the navy's continuing influence on foreign and domestic affairs in time of peace. Professor Braisted has avoided both of these pitfalls. He displays considerable literary talent in his perceptive portraits of leading military and political figures of the times.
Editorial Review
Among the notable works in its genre, The United States Navy in the Pacific, 1897-1909 by William Reynolds Braisted (2008-04-01) by William Reynolds Braisted has established itself as a must-read title.
The book explores rich themes that keep readers engaged from start to finish. This is the story of the twelve important years during which the U.S. Navy won an undisputed place as a major force in the Pacific, and a consideration of the interrelationship of naval and diplomatic policies which brought this about.Professor Braisted's highly readable study covers an area of American naval history which, to a considerable degree, has been neglected, minimized, or misinterpreted. With sound scholarship and imaginative insight he relates in detail the conquest of Hawaii and the Philippines, the Boxer Rebellion and our Open-Door policy in China, the Russo-Japanese War, the maturation of the diplomatic policy of the United States in the Pacific area, and, finally, relations between America and a newly imperialistic Japan, climaxed by Theodore Roosevelt's "Big Stick" Navy world cruise, pointing toward events of the first and second world wars.American diplomatic history too often has been written without adequate attention to economic, military, intellectual, and other motivating factors behind foreign policy, and the study of our naval history too often has been limited to a narrow consideration of wars and campaigns without attention to the navy's continuing influence on foreign and domestic affairs in time of peace.
— Reviewed by Tim Editorial Ardhindie Library ·
Why Read This Book?
✦
Exceptional Reader Ratings — With a stellar 4.56/5 rating, The United States Navy in the Pacific, 1897-1909 by William Reynolds Braisted (2008-04-01) is among the highest-rated books in its category. Over 0 readers have given it outstanding reviews.
✦
Trusted Author — William Reynolds Braisted is known for delivering quality writing that engages readers with compelling storytelling and well-researched content.
Quick Summary
William Reynolds Braisted's 'The United States Navy in the Pacific, 1897-1909' delves into a pivotal era when the U.S. Navy established itself as a dominant force in the Pacific. The book examines the complex interplay between naval actions and diplomatic strategies, highlighting significant events such as the annexation of Hawaii, the Philippines' acquisition, and the U.S. involvement in the Boxer Rebellion and Russo-Japanese War. Braisted's analysis sheds light on the evolution of American foreign policy during this transformative period.
Key Takeaways
✦
Understanding the strategic significance of the U.S. Navy's role in the Pacific.
✦
Insights into key events like the Boxer Rebellion and the Russo-Japanese War.
✦
Exploration of America's evolving diplomatic policies in the early 20th century.
✦
Analysis of the relationship between naval power and diplomacy.
✦
Contextualization of U.S.-Japan relations during a period of imperialism.
Who Should Read This Book
This book is ideal for historians, students, and naval enthusiasts interested in American military history and foreign policy. It offers valuable insights into a largely overlooked period that shaped the United States' role in international affairs, particularly in the Pacific region. Those keen on understanding the dynamics of naval diplomacy will find this work particularly enlightening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time period does the book cover?
The book focuses on the years 1897 to 1909, a crucial time in U.S. naval history.
Is the book suitable for casual readers?
While it is academically rigorous, the author's engaging writing style makes it accessible to casual readers interested in history.
What major events are discussed in the book?
Key events include the annexation of Hawaii, the acquisition of the Philippines, the Boxer Rebellion, and the Russo-Japanese War.
Ardhindie Library provides curated book reviews and reading recommendations across all genres. Our editorial team selects and reviews books to help you find your next great read.