What caused U.S naval expenditures to rise between 1890 and 1905?

U.S. naval expenditures rose between 1890 and 1905 primarily due to the increasing emphasis on Imperialism and the desire to project American power globally. The Spanish-American War in 1898 highlighted the need for a modern navy to protect American interests and territories. Additionally, the influence of naval strategist Alfred Thayer Mahan, who advocated for a strong navy to compete with European powers, further fueled calls for military modernization and expansion. As a result, significant investments were made in shipbuilding and naval infrastructure during this period.