Final answer:
Alfred Mahan wrote a book that built public support for a strong navy by advocating for the importance of naval power in achieving national greatness. His ideas influenced the growth of the U.S. Navy in the late 19th century.
Step-by-step explanation:
Alfred Mahan, a naval theorist and historian, wrote a best-selling book called 'The Influence of Seapower upon History' in 1890 that helped build public support for a strong navy. In the book, Mahan argued that naval power was crucial for nations to achieve greatness and prosperity throughout history. He advocated for the United States to build a bigger, more powerful navy and establish naval bases and coaling stations to expand its naval reach. Mahan's ideas influenced the government, leading to the passing of the Naval Act of 1890 and the subsequent growth of the U.S. Navy.