the u.s. in latin america

The U.S. in Latin AmericaTeddy 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 PlanThe PlanA 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 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 ZoneColumbia refuses, TR is pissed

“I don’t think the lot of jack rabbits should be allowed permanently to bar one for the future

highways of civilization”

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 CanalDisease• Panama – “mosquito paradise” – tropical heat,

heavy rain, thick swamps = hard to build canal– Malaria & yellow fever carried by mosquitos

Building the CanalDig

• 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!!!!