The Navy was modernized in the 1880s, and by the 1890s had adopted the naval power strategy of Captain Alfred Thayer Mahan—as indeed did every major navy. The old sailing ships were replaced by modern steel battleships, bringing them in line with the navies of Britain and Germany. In 1907, most of the Navy's battleships, with several support vessels, dubbed the Great White Fleet, were featured in a 14-month circumnavigation of the world. Ordered by President Theodore Roosevelt, it was a mission designed to demonstrate the Navy's capability to extend to the global theater. COUNT 5
QSN1 When in the 19th century was the US navy modernized? ANS1 the 1880s QSN2 What replaced the older sailing ships in the navy? ANS2 modern steel battleships QSN3 By what name was the US fleet known at the start of the 20th Century? ANS3 the Great White Fleet QSN4 Who ordered this fleet to sail around the world? ANS4 President Theodore Roosevelt QSN5 What was the purpose of this order? ANS5 to demonstrate the Navy's capability to extend to the global theater