Mahan refers to Alfred Thayer Mahan, an influential American naval officer and historian in the late 19th century. He is best known for his book, *The Influence of Sea Power upon History, 1660-1783*, published in 1890. Mahan argued that a strong navy was essential for national greatness and that control of the seas was crucial for economic and military power. His ideas significantly impacted naval strategy and policy, leading many nations to expand their fleets. Mahan's theories contributed to the naval arms race before World War I and influenced leaders like Theodore Roosevelt and Winston Churchill in their maritime strategies.