President Roosevelt believed that the history of America was central to the history of the world by promoting the exportation of the values and ideals of the Americans. This would influence and grow the prestige of the U.S. on the world stage and make the country a global power. Roosevelt believed in a diplomatic maxim of "speak softly and carry a big stick" where the use of force was necessary while practicing the art of persuasion. He believed that the U.S should build a powerful navy and army to avoid conflict with enemies who would prey on their weakness.