The March 1919 confrontation involved British and American naval leaders defending different ideas of an acceptable fleet balance. Boyd presents their strongest language alongside knowledge that American support for a large programme was fragile and that Britain could accept equality while resisting inferiority. Wiseman and House helped communicate the governments' practical positions. The resulting bargain linked British support for the League of Nations with concessions on American building and the treatment of freedom of the seas. The 1919 programme was abandoned, while a promise to postpone further 1916 ships was not kept.
Notable Point · 2:43:56-2:46:35
The naval battle of Paris ended through informed compromise
Knowledge of domestic limits and negotiating priorities helped resolve a confrontation over naval construction and the peace settlement.