Alfred Thayer Mahan (1840-1914) argued a more pro-imperialism belief concluding the importance of military power and influence, while William Appleman Williams (1921-1990) and Walter LaFeber (b. 1933) shared more critical views on American imperialism. Williams pointed out political weakness early in the 20th century American foreign policy, generating a more economic approach, while Lafeber, who was not necessarily an anti-imperialist, deduced economic causes resulted in American being forcefully thrusted into a position of world power. Mahan’s argument holds strongest because he analyzed and interpreted American imperialism in multiple lenses and provided well-reasoned arguments supported with historical