Pax Britannica
Britain's Royal Navy controlled most of the important routes for sea trade and enjoyed unchallenged sea power. Britain's powerful position in world trade meant that it essentially had a firm grip to the access of many regions, such as Asia, North America, Oceania and Africa. The British also helped the United States maintain the Monroe Doctrine which not only helped maintain peace but also supported Britain's economic strength in the Americas. British merchants, shippers and bankers held a significant advantage over their counterparts from other empires. This advantage, formed an 'informal empire' that boosted Britain's global influence.