The Panama Canal
A Shortcut
The late 1800s and early 1900s saw
the United States become
imperialistic. New markets and naval
bases were being created all over
the Pacific Islands and in the
Caribbean.
For years prior to American
imperialism, discussions had taken
place about building a short cut
through Central America that would
link the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
The Canal would provide a much shorter route for
merchants ships as well as naval vessels. This would
greatly benefit American trade and protection.
It was determined that the best location for a new “canal”
would most likely be in either Nicaragua or Panama.
A Shortcut
(cont.)
The United States decided in the early 1900’s it would
begin the process of creating a canal in Central
America.
Columbia
Problem
It was decided that the Panama location would be the
best fit for the work that needed to be done.
At the time, however, the Panama territory was owned
by the national of Columbia. When the United States
approached Columbia with the idea of a canal, the
response was a very quick “no”.
When the Columbian senate voted to reject America’s
proposal of a canal, the Panamanian people revolted.
On November 3rd, 1903, the people of Panama staged an
uprising against Columbia.
By November 6th, U.S President Theodore Roosevelt was
Revolution in
Panama
assisting the Panamanian people in establishing a new
government.
The Columbian government received $20 million for the
loss of the Panama territory. The pathway to build the canal
was now complete.
Construction of
the Canal
From 1903 to 1914, the United States funded the construction of the Panama Canal.
The United States would control all activity through the canal, and who could use it, until
1999.
Additionally, Panama received a $10 Million payment in 1914, and $250,000 each year as
rent for the use of the canal.
Today, roughly 14,000 ships per year pass through the Canal.
0
