The Influence of Sea Power upon History. Alfred Thayer Mahan

       History of Sea Power one of contest between nations, therefore largely military

       Permanence of the teachings of history

       Unsettled condition of modern naval opinion

       Contrasts between historical classes of war-ships

       Essential distinction between weather and lee gage

       Analogous to other offensive and defensive positions

       Consequent effect upon naval policy

       Lessons of history apply especially to strategy

       Less obviously to tactics, but still applicable

       Naval strategic combinations surer now than formerly

       Wide scope of naval strategy

       The sea a great common

       Advantages of water-carriage over that by land

       Navies exist for the protection of commerce

       Dependence of commerce upon secure seaports

       Development of colonies and colonial posts

       Links in the chain of Sea Power: production, shipping, colonies

       General conditions affecting Sea Power:I. Geographical positionII. Physical conformationIII. Extent of territoryIV. Number of populationV. National characterVI. Character and policy of governmentsEnglandHollandFrance

       Influence of colonies on Sea Power

       The United States:Its weakness in Sea PowerIts chief interest in internal developmentDanger from blockadesDependence of the navy upon the shipping interest

       Conclusion of the discussion of the elements of Sea Power

       Purpose of the historical narrative

       Accession of Charles II. and Louis XIV

       Followed shortly by general wars

       French policy formulated by Henry IV. and Richelieu

       Condition of France in 1660

       Condition of Spain

       Condition of the Dutch United Provinces

       Their commerce and colonies

       Character of their government

       Parties in the State

       Condition of England in 1660

       Characteristics of French, English, and Dutch ships

       Conditions