State identity and the development and settlement of maritime claims

In this dissertation, I consider what makes some states value ocean space more than others, and how these differences in value affect state actions. I posit that history, geography, legal systems, and national narratives all play a role in causing states to assign different values to maritime space. These values, moreover, guide how states respond to international disputes over maritime ownership. States that place a higher value on maritime space are more likely to respond to international ambiguity of ownership by attempting to settle the issue. This settlement can take various forms, from international conflict to international legal courts. I find that identity does play a valuable role in how states value maritime space, and that the higher value states have for such space, the more likely they will be to settle any disputes over it.