Arguing Over Empire: American Interservice and Interdepartmental Rivalry Over Micronesia, 1943–1947∗

Friedman, Hal M. (June 1994). "Arguing Over Empire: American Interservice and Interdepartmental Rivalry Over Micronesia, 1943–1947∗". The Journal of Pacific History. 29 (1): 36–48. doi:10.1080/00223349408572757. ISSN 1469-9605 0022-3344, 1469-9605 .

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Abstract: examines the intense interservice and interdepartmental rivalries in the United States regarding policy and control over Micronesia during and after World War II. Between 1943 and 1947, these rivalries were at the forefront of military strategy and policy formulation, particularly involving the Navy and other military and governmental departments.

The article aims to build upon existing literature by providing a more comprehensive analysis of the major issues that divided various departments at the time. It argues that America’s role in the post-war Pacific was influenced as much by domestic bureaucratic considerations as by international strategic competition.

In the aftermath of Japan’s surrender in 1945, the Joint Chiefs of Staff promoted a policy for maintaining a highly trained and equipped military, which included establishing a comprehensive global network of overseas bases. The Navy, for instance, assumed post-war responsibilities in Micronesia, expecting to control potential threats like a resurgent Japan or confrontation with the Soviet Union. They emphasized the importance of sea-air power in securing American defense interests in the Pacific.

The article highlights discussions around military roles and missions post-war, and the strategic debates that ensued, showcasing Micronesia as a focal point of these interservice conflicts.

Extra details:

QID: Q56048257
MAG: 2075971458
OpenAlex: W2075971458
CorpusID: 162401791