THE IDEA OF A "FLEET IN BEING" IN HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE.

The article discusses the history of the phrase "fleet in being" throughout the history of naval warfare from 1690 through the 19th century. An overview of the naval warfare in the American Revolution, including the British Royal Navy's efforts in gaining sea power over the American and French navies and its naval strategy throughout the war, is provided. An overview of military strategist Alfred Thayer Mahan's perspective on naval strategy is also provided.