In this interpretation of postwar naval diplomacy, the United States assumed more of Britain's maritime presence role as British finances weakened. Treaty allowances and industrial potential had not previously translated into the full American peacetime fleet that could have been built. Britain's financial difficulties included the effects of both world wars, the Great Depression, and the abrupt change in wartime financial support. The end of empires created a less settled international environment in which ships had to operate visibly in many places. Gearing-type destroyers are judged to have lacked the imposing appearance expected of this wider American role.
Notable Point · 6:03-9:18
America inherits the presence burden
The transfer of maritime presence duties from Britain to the United States helps explain the emphasis on the appearance and perceived status of postwar destroyers.