Reports Battleships in Pacific

In 1939, Congress refused to fortify Guam to avoid offending Japan. Despite this, plans were ready to make Guam a key Pacific outpost for the U.S. fleet, pending Congress approval. Establishing a base in Guam would complete U.S. defenses in the Pacific. In 1940, U.S. policy was dominated by the goal of preserving peace in the Western Hemisphere.

Why did Congress refuse to strengthen Guam in 1939?

• Because of environmental concerns

• To avoid offending Japan

• Due to budget constraints

• Lack of strategic importance

What was the purpose of the preliminary plans prepared by naval engineers for Guam?

• To build a tourist resort

• To establish a new trade route

• To develop a new agricultural hub

• To create a fortified Pacific outpost for the U.S. fleet

What would complete the chain of U.S. defenses in the Pacific according to the plans?

• Increasing trade with Asia

• Forming alliances with Pacific nations

• Building a new naval fleet

• Establishing a base at Guam

What was the dominant factor in U.S. national policy in 1940?

• Forming new international alliances

• Increasing military spending

• Preserving peace in the Western Hemisphere

• Expanding territorial claims

What was the American people's overwhelming mandate in 1940?

• To develop new technologies

• To preserve peace in the Western Hemisphere

• To expand U.S. territories

• To increase military presence in Europe