Final answer:
Alfred Mahan's 'The Influence of Sea Power upon History' greatly influenced the U.S. shift towards a strong naval power, which contributed to the building of an American empire and initiated a global arms race.
Step-by-step explanation:
The publication of Alfred Mahan's book, The Influence of Sea Power upon History, significantly impacted the strategic direction of the United States' naval policy at the turn of the 20th century. Mahan advocated for a robust naval power as a means to economic prosperity and dominance on the global stage.
He stressed the importance of a modern fleet capable of protecting commercial interests and argued for the acquisition of strategic coaling stations to extend the reach of the navy. This led to the establishment of naval bases, the construction of a modern fleet, and the expansion of the U.S. influence, thereby shifting the country towards building an American empire.
Influenced by Mahan's ideas, the United States Navy grew significantly in power, helping America to prevail in the Spanish-American War and ultimately altered the course of international relations by contributing to a global arms race.