Panama Intervention

Definition

The Panama Intervention refers to the U.S. military involvement in Panama during the early 20th century, primarily focused on the support of Panama's independence from Colombia in 1903 and subsequent actions to secure control over the Panama Canal. This intervention is significant as it showcases American imperial ambitions and the broader context of U.S. foreign policy in Latin America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The U.S. supported a rebellion in Panama against Colombia in 1903, leading to Panama's independence and allowing for the construction of the Panama Canal.
2. The Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty was signed shortly after Panama's independence, granting the U.S. control over a 10-mile-wide canal zone.
3. The construction of the Panama Canal was completed in 1914 and was critical for military and commercial shipping, drastically reducing travel time between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
4. U.S. control over the canal zone continued until 1999, highlighting America's long-term strategic interests in Central America.
5. The intervention sparked debates over imperialism and U.S. involvement in Latin American politics, reflecting tensions that would shape future relations in the region.

Review Questions

• How did the U.S. involvement in Panama reflect broader themes of American foreign policy during the early 20th century?
  • The U.S. involvement in Panama is a clear example of American imperialism and its pursuit of strategic interests in Latin America during this period. The support for Panama's independence from Colombia and subsequent control over the Panama Canal illustrate a shift towards an active role in international affairs, influenced by ideas like the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine. This intervention highlighted America's willingness to use military force to achieve its goals and protect its economic interests.
• Discuss the implications of the Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty on U.S.-Panama relations and regional stability.
  • The Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty established U.S. control over a significant area for canal construction, creating long-term tensions between Panama and the United States. While it facilitated the construction of the Panama Canal, it also fostered resentment among Panamanians who felt their sovereignty was undermined. This dynamic contributed to future conflicts and negotiations regarding Panamanian sovereignty, illustrating how U.S. interventions could have lasting effects on diplomatic relations in Latin America.
• Evaluate how the Panama Intervention shaped perceptions of American imperialism both domestically and internationally.
  • The Panama Intervention significantly influenced perceptions of American imperialism by showcasing a readiness to engage militarily for strategic gain while promoting ideals of democracy and liberation. Domestically, it fueled debates about America's role as an imperial power versus a promoter of self-determination, with critics arguing against interventionist policies as contrary to American values. Internationally, it contributed to a legacy of suspicion towards U.S. intentions in Latin America, shaping diplomatic relations and fostering anti-American sentiments that would resonate throughout the 20th century.

Related terms

Teddy Roosevelt:

The 26th President of the United States, known for his assertive foreign policy and for leading the U.S. during the Panama Intervention to secure the construction of the Panama Canal.

Monroe Doctrine:

A U.S. policy that opposed European colonialism in the Americas, asserting that any intervention by external powers in the politics of the Americas would be viewed as a threat to U.S. security.

Roosevelt Corollary:

An extension of the Monroe Doctrine articulated by Teddy Roosevelt, stating that the U.S. would intervene in Latin American nations to maintain stability and prevent European intervention.