What was the purpose of the "Great White Fleet"?

The primary purpose of the "Great White Fleet" was to project power by sending U.S. Navy ships around the world. This event, which took place from 1907 to 1909, involved a voyage of 16 battleships that were painted white, hence the name. The mission was not only a display of the Navy's capabilities and a demonstration of the United States' increased naval strength, but it also served to showcase the country's ability to deploy its naval forces across the globe. This strategic show of force aimed to assert U.S. presence internationally, particularly in the Pacific and in relation to nations like Japan, signaling the country’s growing status as a global power.

By embarking on this circumnavigation, the Great White Fleet effectively sent a strong message to both allies and potential adversaries about the U.S. commitment to maintaining maritime security and its readiness to act in defense of its interests. The impact of this mission went beyond mere technology or training; it was an explicit statement of military capability and a tool for diplomacy, thereby enhancing the profile of the U.S. Navy on the world stage.