The US engaged in economic coercion and political bribery to acquire control of the Canal Zone and construct the Panama Canal. Specifically, the US:
- Pressured Colombia, which then controlled Panama, to grant the US exclusive rights to build and operate a canal across the isthmus.
- Supported a Panamanian rebellion against Colombia, resulting in the establishment of a US-friendly Panamanian government.
- Negotiated the Hay–Bunau-Varilla Treaty with the new Panamanian government, which granted the US perpetual control of the Canal Zone.
- Paid Colombia a large sum of money as compensation for the loss of Panama.
B. Technological Advancements
The US also applied technological advancements and engineering expertise to successfully construct the Panama Canal. The project involved:
- Building a system of locks to raise and lower ships more than 85 feet above sea level, allowing them to pass through the mountainous terrain.
- Excavating millions of cubic yards of earth and rock to create a channel for the canal.
- Constructing dams, spillways, and other structures to control the flow of water and ensure the canal's stability.
- Addressing public health challenges, such as controlling malaria and yellow fever, and improving sanitation conditions.
The combination of economic coercion, political maneuvers, and technological ingenuity enabled the US to acquire the Canal Zone and build the Panama Canal, which became a vital route for international trade and transportation.