The Gilded Age E69 The Making of the Modern Marine Corps

This episode covers an often overlooked period of Marine Corps activity during the Gilded Age. While the nation focused on industry and expansion, Marines were deployed globally, supporting U.S. interests, protecting trade routes, and enforcing treaties. In Panama, they were involved in repeated interventions to stabilize a region critical to future canal plans. At home, the Corps faced low morale, slow promotions, poor infrastructure, and outdated equipment. The Corps stayed active, adapted when needed, and proved its value through consistent performance in uncertain conditions.