Many Americans would expect Britain's larger navy, industry, and empire to defeat Japan. That expectation creates a strategic problem for Washington: a British victory won without American participation could leave Britain dominant in the Far East. Joining the conflict would give the United States influence over the war and its settlement. Public outrage could support intervention, while balance-of-power concerns provide a colder reason for forming an Anglo-American coalition.
Notable Point · 8:36-11:25
Why the United States might enter a Far Eastern war
American intervention could follow from balance-of-power fears as much as sympathy for Britain or hostility toward Japan.