What concept did Alfred Thayer Mahan advocate regarding U.S. naval strategy?

Alfred Thayer Mahan is best known for his influential work, "The Influence of Sea Power upon History, 1660-1783," where he articulated the idea that a nation's power is heavily dependent on its ability to secure and control the seas. He argued that naval supremacy is essential for national greatness because it facilitates trade, allows for the protection of commerce, and enables a nation to project its power globally. Mahan emphasized that countries with strong navies could control trade routes and access resources, thereby enhancing their economic and geopolitical influence. This philosophy played a significant role in shaping U.S. naval policy and expansion during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as evidenced by the construction of a modern navy and the establishment of overseas bases to support American interests.