Although President Woodrow Wilson remained preoccupied with the concept of global hegemony, he was compelled to exercise restraint in the face of Germany's formidable military might, watching helplessly as Germany triumphed in the war and trampled upon the established powers of Britain and France, emerging as the new world leader.
"Gentlemen, reflecting on this war and its ultimate outcome, it is imperative that we reassess our priorities. We have long prioritized industrial and economic development, neglecting the construction of our military capabilities. While our industrial output has ascended to the pinnacle globally, our military forces fail to even rank among the top five. Such an imbalance profoundly impacts the international standing and overall strength of the Republic. Therefore, I believe it is essential for us to bolster our military capabilities moving forward—not only our navy but also our army must be strengthened," President Wilson declared.
In this era, the importance of a nation's military power was indisputable. Had the United States possessed a robust military prior to the outbreak of this world war, it would not have been relegated to the role of an observer, but would certainly have engaged in the conflict, thus sharing in the ensuing benefits.
The cabinet members of the U.S. government nodded in agreement, each harboring a fervent desire for a formidable military force.
Both Secretary of the Navy Daniels and Secretary of War Garrison expressed their support. Historically, the weakness of America's military had rendered them voiceless within the cabinet, especially given the absence of any formidable powers nearby. This circumstance had diminished the necessity for a strong military, consequently undermining Garrison's authority as Secretary of War.
"Mr. President, we must build a powerful navy to secure our control over the Americas. Even before the war erupted, German capital was flooding into South America. This poses a significant threat to our Republic. Should Germany emerge victorious in this global conflict, their efforts to seize interests in South America will undoubtedly intensify. Without a formidable navy to support us, we will be incapable of countering German advances in that region," Secretary Redfield cautioned.
President Wilson nodded, acknowledging the complexity of the issue.
"Gentlemen, I need not elaborate on the importance of South America to our interests. Losing South America would deliver a tremendous blow to the Republic. Therefore, we must absolutely retain our influence there," President Wilson asserted.
As the world's leading industrial power, the United States produced a vast array of industrial goods that required markets. Failure to secure these markets would have dire repercussions for American industry, adversely affecting the nation as a whole. The countries of South America, being predominantly weak, had become natural sources of raw materials and markets for the United States, underscoring their significance.
"Mr. President, the navy is already in the process of constructing new warships. However, given the current urgency, I believe it is necessary to expedite our efforts. We should aim to develop a powerful navy within three years," Secretary Daniels remarked.
"Mr. President, the army intends to increase the current standing forces from 100,000 to 200,000, and subsequently to 500,000. We must enhance training and equip our troops with more advanced weaponry to bolster their combat effectiveness and narrow the gap with the German army," Secretary Garrison added. In comparison to the U.S. population, the size of the army seemed remarkably diminutive.
President Wilson nodded in agreement; both the navy and army required strengthening, which was essential. Although this would necessitate considerable funding, the United States was not lacking in financial resources. Their substantial wealth would suffice to support the enhancement of military capabilities.
At that moment, Secretary of State Bryan finally arrived.
"I apologize for my tardiness, gentlemen," Bryan said with a smile.
"Please take a seat, Mr. Bryan. However, our meeting is nearing its conclusion. In this session, we have concluded that, given the German navy's victory in the recent naval engagement, it is almost beyond doubt that Germany will ultimately prevail in this war. Therefore, to avoid unduly provoking Germany, we plan to maintain strict neutrality in the coming period and refrain from any involvement in the conflict," President Wilson stated.
Bryan nodded, "Mr. President, I agree in principle. Offending a nation poised to become a dominant power would be most unwise. However, Mr. President, there is a development I must report to you."
"What is it?" President Wilson inquired.
"Just now, I met with the British Ambassador to the United States. He informed me that British First Lord of the Admiralty Churchill intends to conduct a secret visit to our country, expected to arrive in three days," Bryan announced.
"What? The British First Lord of the Admiralty is coming for a secret visit? What could they possibly want?" President Wilson furrowed his brow, uncertain of the British intentions.
The other cabinet members began to murmur among themselves.
"Mr. President, could it be that the British are still seeking our support, or perhaps attempting to draw us into the conflict?" Vice President Marshall suggested.
"We are not foolish; in light of the clear trajectory of the conflict, why would we throw ourselves into the fray and risk our interests for the benefit of the British?" President Wilson shook his head.
After considerable deliberation, the group concluded that the British were likely seeking their support and assistance. However, from the American perspective, they were keen to avoid entanglement at this juncture. After all, should the U.S. decide to join, it would prefer to ally with the victors, thereby sharing in the spoils of victory rather than jeopardizing itself.
"Well, since we cannot predict their intentions, we shall wait for Churchill's arrival to clarify matters! In any case, we are prepared to uphold our neutrality, and that decision will remain unchanged!" President Wilson concluded.