The U.S. in Latin America

The U.S. in Latin America Teddy the Hero • As a result of SPAM, TR was now a war hero • Becomes president in 1901 • Wants to build a canal through the isthmus of Panama

Think “Christmas” without the “chr” Isthmus: narrow strip of land connecting two larger bodies of land • Panama was ideal • Only 50 miles of land separated the Caribbean Sea & Pacific Ocean

The Plan A canal would HUGELY benefit U.S. trade • Cutting a path would avoid a long trip around S. America (think NY to SF) • Shorter sailing distance = smaller cost of shipping goods

The Plan • A canal would HUGELY benefit military capabilities • - In the event of war, navy could quickly move ships between Pacific & Atlantic • - They could save resources by centralizing their efforts The Plan

The Problem • Columbia owned the isthmus of Panama • Panamanians wanted to break free from the rule of Columbia (think Spanish rule) • We offer $10 million cash PLUS $250,000 yearly rent for a strip of land across Panama

The Canal Zone • “I don’t think the lot of jack rabbits should be allowed permanently to bar one for the future highways of civilization” Columbia refuses, TR is pissed

Remember…TR is a fan of African culture African proverb: “Speak softly & carry a big stick, & you will go far” words should be supported by strong action

November- U.S. warship Nashville drops anchor at Panama (the expansionist???)

The next day, U.S. troops intervene as Panamanians rebel against Columbian rule • U.S. stops Columbians from crushing revolt • Panama declares itself independent

U.S. recognizes the new nation at once • In effect Panama agrees to let U.S. build a canal on terms similar to those it had offered to Columbia

Building the Canal Disease • Panama – “mosquito paradise” – tropical heat, heavy rain, thick swamps = hard to build canal • Malaria & yellow fever carried by mosquitos

Building the Canal Dig • 40,000 workers dug the canal • Obstacles – mountains, artificial lakes, gigantic locks • 1914 = first steamship traveled through the Panama Canal

Perks • Helped trade for many nations • We now nudged our way into intervening in Latin America • ..Latin American nations now become angry that a new imperial power was in charge: America

THE IMPERIALIST GAME!!!!! • You can’t play until this map is totally FINISHED • Maps are due Friday so we can play… • Winners get a prize – we play Friday • Please do this neatly & clearly  • You must COMPLETE THE GAME to claim a prize!!!!

The U.S. in Latin America