The U.S. Merchant Marine: Back to the Future?

Authors

Christopher J. McMahon

Abstract

The epigraphs that open this article are but three of a vast number of quotes from U.S. presidents, members of Congress, and military leaders calling for support of a U.S.-flag merchant marine.1 Throughout American history, dozens of laws have been proposed and passed that have, in varying degrees, supported the operation of U.S.-flag ships in both coastal and international trade; no law ever passed has called for a reduction in or the elimination of U.S.-flag ships. And yet, despite periods of great growth at various times in U.S. history, the U.S. Merchant Marine, once again, is in serious decline today.

Recommended Citation

McMahon, Christopher J. (2016) "The U.S. Merchant Marine: Back to the Future?," Naval War College Review: Vol. 69: No. 1, Article 6.
Available at: https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/nwc-review/vol69/iss1/6