Empire Marine–This documentary explores the life of Littleton W.T. Waller and examines the role he played in the development and growth of the Marine Corps, within the context of the emerging empire of turn-of-twentieth century America. Waller’s service (1880-1920) corresponded with the growth of the Marine Corps and the exportation of American imperialism in the 1890s and beyond. His service included episodes of U.S. political and military expansion in South America, the Philippines, China, Panama, Cuba, and Haiti. Waller’s experiences reflect the new emerging role the marines would play in the execution of American policy in the world. As naval power became the accepted tool of expansion and a necessity for success as a world power, it became apparent that new tactics and expertise would be required to handle the demands of the new responsibilities of imperialism. Increasingly, the marines were called upon to spearhead that policy of expansion and as time went on, were able to demonstrate the capability to achieve tactical and often, political goals. Empire Marine focuses on the theme of change and transition and illustrate how Waller’s career revealed those changing roles for the Marine Corps.

Length 67 minutes