What is gunboat diplomacy?

Gunboat diplomacy is the policy where diplomatic policies are pursued through a display of naval power signifying a threat of war if the terms are not acceptable to the superior party. It traces its origins in the 19th century when countries display their military and naval power to intimidate their neighbors and to get what they demand. However, frequent use of this method of diplomacy may escalate the situation into an all-out war and that would draw nations into a long and dangerous conflict.