Yeah, shows what I used to know.
And I did watch a video or two after I posted this, so I know it started in the 1910s, but as for where I got the impression FDR looking to "bait" Japan [He might've read a copy of Hector Bywater's book too], I'm not entirely sure. I just feel like there was some sort of "baiting" being done to entice Japan to attack.
I've seen other questions on here or timelines that attempt to divide Spain's holdings more regionally. I've always been more of a "one should stick to what they can produce within their own borders" type. If people want that type of foreign food, then they should be willing to pay entire cost associated with importing that without complaint [wishful I know].
To me, it just feels like there was some sort of hidden situation going revolving around Japan, FDR and Hawaii that no one really has said, just that it seemed to be a mystery.
Hawaii was good as a fuel stop, and that was the general feeling of the Navy as well to a degree, but as far as a fleet HQ base, I think San Diego would've been fine remaining as it was.
Yet, I stand on the point that having most of the standards moved to Hawaii was a form of bait. FDR knew that people wouldnt necessarily be enraged enough if just the P.I. got attacked as that was waaaaay over there. So, hence pushed the standards over to PH.
That's my understanding anyway.
Additionally, there was some form jockeying going on around Hawaii and 1900-1910 ish where while Hawaii was nominally under U.S. unofficial control at the turn of the century, both Britain and Japan were also working to some degree. Just that for whatever reasons [over reach, costs, etc], the other two fell short for lack of resources to gain influence or power.
Again, that is my understanding of it.
Also, I have seen a very interesting video on Hawaii's power grid systemS.
Every island inhabited had their own power plant, and while it isn't said in any of the videos I've seen, it is likely that this was the case of the 1930s and 40s as well.
Thanks for helping me to remember some of what I learned long ago... Appreciate it.
On that topic where Japan would go if not PH, Dr Alexander Clarke did a video/stream related to this "If not PH..." was something like the title, where he outlines the scenarios where Japan would look at the other options more seriously. I've often considered San Diego has a possible for alternate attack. Mostly coming from off the tip of the Baja with aircraft at night striking SD from the south. Very difficult to pull off due top the logistics required for such a long venture, very dangerous too.
Comments and more thoughts?