The U.s. Interest in the Panama Canal Essay - 896 Words

Why do you think the United States (U.S.) became involved with Latin America? If you said, it was because we wanted something, you are right. Throughout history we have always wanted something from somebody and as customary, we get it. In the case of Latin America, we were in need of a more logical passage from coast to coast. The perfect solution was, the Panama Canal. We knew what we needed, so we did everything in our power to get it. President Roosevelt didnt care how it happened or at what cost as long as it was ours. Once we took control of the canal we would not relinquish it. It wasnt until 1999 when we finally gave them back their land. Yet, today they are still paying for our involvement in the canal. The U.S. needed†¦show more content†¦Theodore Roosevelt himself said I simply lifted my foot. I took the Isthmus, started the Canal. (Huberman) On November 3, 1903, with the guidance (force) from the U.S, the Panamanians received their independence. Within weeks they gave the U.S. permission to build the canal. Philippe Bunau-Varilla, a longtime official of the French canal company would negotiate the terms. (Encarta) The U.S. received more than it had asked for: a perpetual lease on a section where the canal would be built; the right to take over more land if needed; and the right to use troops to intervene in Panama. We also agreed to guarantee their independence, pay $10 million, and pay an annual fee of $250,000. In exchange for their independence, then, Panamanians were forced to accept the treaty, which no Panamanian ever signed, that virtually gave away the Canal Zone to the U.S. (Cruises) We stole it right out from under them. After 34 years and the excavation of 250 million cubic yards of earth and rock, on August 15, 1914 the Canal was officially opened. At that time, no single effort in American history had exacted such a price in dollars or in human life. (Ared) From 1904 to 1914 the U.S. spent $352,000,000; the French spending $287,000,000 and the grand total was $639,000,000. It is estimated that over 80,000 persons took part in the construction and that over 30,000 lives were lost by both the FrenchShow MoreRelatedThe People And Culture Of Panama1077 Words   |  5 PagesPeople and Culture of Panama Panama is vibrant nation, full of culture, beautiful landscapes and beaches, a vast military history pertaining to the U.S., along with world changing technological advances. Even though it is pretty up to date communication and technology wise, it still sticks to its native roots. Panamanians are quick to tell you what they love about their country. Whether it’s the climate, the culture, or the outdoors, national pride runs deep in Panama. Many Panamanians feelRead MorePanama Canal is a Man-made Link to World Travel1754 Words   |  7 Pageschallenging man-made resources was completed. 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