We are now working on a new Alternative History project - Victorian Admirals:
In the second half of 1880s, the policy of imperialism in the tropical Pacific led to a local naval conflict between the U.S., the German Empire and the Kingdom of Spain.
None of the contestants want a big war. Therefore, only the quick clash of colonial squdrons in tropical waters will decide who will rule Oceania.
Marianas Incident with Spain / USA 1883
To strengthen position in the Pacific Ocean; the United States needs to control at least one of the tropical islands such as the Spanish Mariana Islands, or the Samoan archipelago. Events in Cuba and internal problems did not allow Spain to strengthen its colony in Oceania. The Great powers are not interested in supporting the interests of Spain in the Pacific and will not interfere in the conflict.
None of the contestants want a big war. Therefore, only the quick clash of colonial squdrons in tropical waters will decide who will rule the Mariana Islands after 1883.
Caroline Islands Crisis with Germany / Spain 1885
Germany began her colonial enterprise very late and was, therefore, at a disadvantage, finding all the desirable places already occupie. The Spaniards claimed the Caroline Islands as their colony, but did not actually control them. Germany disputed the Spanish claim.
In August of 1885, Spain sent warships to Yap (Caroline Islands) to assert their territorial claim; however, the German government was aware of these ships and its squadron arrived the night before the Spanish landed.
Samoan Crisis with Germany / USA 1889
The Samoan archipelago is the last of the territories of Oceania which has not yet been colonized. The German Empire, through the tribal supreme chief, is trying to establish control over the Samoa. This leads to civil war between the natives. The United States supports the rebels. Governments of both nations have sent warships to the largest and busiest Apia harbor in Samoa. The commanders of naval squadrons ready for battle. Conflict of trade and strategic interests can be resolved only by force.
All of these conflicts could happen. For example
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samoan_crisis