Alfred von Tirpitz

Tirpitz, as State Secretary of the Imperial German Navy, initiated a massive naval building program. He pushed through the First and Second Navy Laws, authorizing the construction of a battle fleet. This triggered a naval arms race with Britain that strained Anglo-German relations before World War I.

Tirpitz formulated the 'Risk Theory' doctrine, arguing that Germany should build a fleet strong enough that Britain would risk losing naval supremacy if it attacked. This doctrine guided German naval policy for over a decade and led to the construction of the High Seas Fleet.

Tirpitz resigned as State Secretary of the Imperial German Navy in March 1916. He opposed the decision to restrict U-boat warfare after the sinking of the Lusitania. His resignation marked the end of his influence over German naval policy, though he remained a public figure.