You have no power politically if you have no influence. It's like trying to keep the law without the police. America created the first submarines, iron-clad ships, and had a powerful navy before but they had to take it apart since they ran out of money. They were very powerful in the 20th century and became a world super power because of trade with the Allies in the first world war. Using the money, they improved the military and technology. That is why the USA has so much influence.
