Civil War and Two Ocean Theory, Dissertation Discussion Example

Question 1:

The civil war impacted North, South and West both individually and collectively. From the individual perspective even though there were tragic experiences it forged the states to become united and not just unified. Southern States were prevented from seceding. They were placed under military rule and had to reapply for admission into the Union while the North enjoyed benefits of the federal government’s favor. The West was marginalized (Bradford, 2010).

Collectively, the Federal government reigned supreme over all, sections of the states. Slavery was officially abolished and the parameters for reconstruction were set in motion. In my opinion amidst the animosity between blacks and whites within the society reconstruction was not simply a failure for blacks, but another bitter tragedy just like the civil was itself. Once it was a venture to improve the quality of life for blacks/ex-slaves in their communities it was doomed to fail (Bradford, J. (2010).

Question 2:

While credit must be given to Alfred T. Mahan’s seminal thinking being alluded the grandeur of being one of America’s most renowned sea strategist, many difficulties has to be surmounted for this Hitler like idea to be achieved. It would mean not only claiming the oceans, but the land surrounding them. These lands have been inhabited by people who may not readily surrender to United States American rule. In 1890 this theory forged a naval arms race. As such, America can only accomplish this through warfare with its central and South American neighbors (Keegan, 2009).

References

Bradford, J. (2010). A companion to American military history. vol. 1, p. 101. United Stes Of America.

Keegan, J. (2009). The American Civil War. New York: Knopf