Solaks Essay Alyssa Ratz

Which nation was most responsible for the naval race, Great Britain or Germany?

The naval race between Great Britain and Germany was a controversial event before World War I. Then men and women of the past, and of todays modern society, has questioned who was rather more responsible for the naval race, Great Britain, or Germany. While some would say Germany was the most responsible for the naval race due to the fact Germany sent a telegram to the Boer’s congratulating them, and Germany’s actions of doubling the size of its navy, the reality is that Great Britain was the most responsible for the naval race because of her threat to Germany, as well as starting the Boer War.

The primary reason why Great Britain was the most responsible for the naval race was because Great Britain threatened Germany to block off German trade. After the Boer War, Germany sympathized with them, primarily because of the Dutch descent, and sent a telegram to the Boers. Great Britain became furious. In respondance, Great Britain sent a message threatening to block Germany’s trade, using its massive Navy (larger than France and Germany's Navy’s combined). Due to Great Britain's threat, it caused Germany to create a larger navy, double its size, using a method called the German Fleet Acts.

Another reason why Great Britain was the most responsible for the naval race, was because of their cause of the Boer War. Great Britain wanted resources to make goods. It was so important to them, they created colonies in the 13 Colonies (U.S.A), Africa, and Asia. Great Britain wanted South African territory because it