The main motive behind the United States sending its fleet to the Pacific on the eve of World War II was to display and assert its naval supremacy in the region. The decision was made in response to Japan's rising military strength and its expansionist policies, particularly its invasion of China and the occupation of French Indochina (Vietnam). By sending its fleet to the Pacific, the U.S. aimed to send a clear signal to Japan and its allies that the U.S. would not tolerate any further aggression in the region and was determined to maintain the balance of power.
2. Deter Japan from Further Expansion:
Another key motive of the U.S. fleet's presence in the Pacific was to deter Japan from taking any further aggressive actions against its neighbors. The U.S. wanted to prevent Japan from gaining control over more territories and resources in the Pacific, which would have significantly shifted the regional power dynamics and potentially threatened U.S. interests in the region. By positioning its fleet in the Pacific, the U.S. intended to dissuade Japan from launching any attacks or attempting to expand its influence further.
3. Support Allied Nations in the Pacific:
The U.S. also had the motive of supporting its allied powers in the Asia-Pacific region, such as the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, and China. These nations had colonial possessions and economic interests in the region and were deeply concerned about Japan's expansionist policies. By deploying its fleet, the U.S. aimed to provide reassurance to its allies that the U.S. was committed to their defense and would provide assistance in case of any military conflict with Japan.
4. Protect U.S. Economic Interests:
The United States had significant economic interests in the Asia-Pacific region, including trade, investment, and access to vital resources such as oil, rubber, and tin. Japan's aggressive actions and its dominance in the region posed a substantial threat to U.S. economic interests. The presence of the U.S. fleet served to protect American economic investments and ensure that the sea lanes and trade routes remained open and secure, thereby safeguarding the country's economic prosperity.
In summary, the main motive behind the U.S. sending its fleet to the Pacific on the eve of World War II was to assert its naval power, deter Japan from further aggression, support its allies in the region, and protect its economic interests in the Asia-Pacific region.