The history of the United States is intimately and inextricably linked to the sea.  For over 250 years the U.S. Navy has been the backbone of Americas presence abroad. This groundbreaking new study provides an accessible and engaging survey of U.S. naval history, tracing the relationship between the American Navy and the position of the United States on the global political stage. The volume places equal weight on the influence of major wartime campaigns and naval efforts to defend and expand Americas interests during times of peace. Designed to be accessible to students and scholars alike, the book contains a host of pedagogical features, including many illustrations and maps integrated with the text. Each chapter is enhanced with detailed sidebars featuring biographical sketches of influential leaders and descriptions of weapons and technological developments of the period. Edited by one of the nations foremost authorities on naval history, America, Sea Power, and the World will be essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the legacy of Americas maritime past.