ABSTRACT
Embargoes operate on the basis of distributions of fundamental power capabilities in the international system. This chapter describes changes in these distributions over the postwar era with emphasis on the position of the United States (US). It examines economic and military capabilities. The distinction is due in part to lag between economic and military development as the US finds itself in a complex alliance arrangement from which it is difficult and destabilizing to withdraw, and to capabilities accumulated over the years such as bases and aircraft carriers. Rapid, global reach, though expanding, is limited due to smaller aircraft and a paucity of bases. The political significance of bases arises from the varied security functions their facilities perform: "tripwires" threatening the global powers' intervention if violated, defense of routes, staging areas for rapid deployment forces, supply/repair stations for naval vessels and aircraft, intelligence gathering, and communications links.
