The author of this treatise was a United States Navy Flag Officer who was convinced that sea power and influence were of the utmost importance for countries with a coastline. He was also an educator and his teachings and views convinced many governments and led to the build-up of naval powers before WWI. This book ranges over several topics. In his introduction, Maham states that he wished to bring some knowledge and understanding of warfare to the ordinary man. He also adds that the chapters in his book are not related except in that they have some connection to the war in Spain.