The Great White Fleet was a United States Navy fleet that circumnavigated the globe in 1907-1909, to showcase American naval power and global naval supremacy after Spain lost its empire in the Spanish-American War of 1898.
* The fleet was named for the color of its ships, which were painted white in accordance with the US Navy's prevailing paint scheme at the time.
* The Great White Fleet consisted of 16 battleships, divided into two squadrons. The First Squadron was commanded by Rear Admiral Robley D. Evans, while the Second Squadron was commanded by Rear Admiral Charles S. Sperry.
* The fleet began its journey from Hampton Roads, Virginia, on December 16, 1907. They spent seven months visiting 20 ports in 14 countries, including Cuba, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Panama, Mexico, Japan, China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Egypt, and Greece.
* The cruise covered over 45,000 nautical miles (over 83,000 km) and was a major logistical undertaking, requiring careful coordination of fuel supplies, provisions, and port visits.
* The fleet demonstrated American naval strength, advanced technology, and military prowess at a time when the United States was emerging as a global power.
* The Great White Fleet's voyage played a significant role in shaping international perceptions of American naval capabilities and contributed to the nation's growing global influence and prestige.