Mahan states that although he felt that the United States had a lack of preparation, he still believed that it should expand its influence because at the time, the link between shipping, markets, and power were a direct correlation. He states, "due to our natural advantages, and not to our intelligent preparations" that the United States was not prepared. It seemed as though Mahan felt that our navy did not reflect that of which powerful or strong enough to expand influence. Mahan implicated that without strong navies, United States could not have much power over shipping and exports, which was very relevant at the time. This is understood when Manhan states that there is an "importance for distant markets".
I think Mahan had great influence
I think Mahan had great influence