Nicaragua signed a treaty with the United States in 1850, known as the Clayton-Bulwer Treaty. This treaty was negotiated between the United States and the United Kingdom, which had significant influence in the region at the time. The Clayton-Bulwer Treaty aimed to establish neutrality and equal rights for both countries in the construction of a potential canal across Central America. It included provisions that neither party would gain exclusive control over such a canal or fortify the surrounding territory. The treaty also stipulated that any canal constructed would be open to all nations on equal terms, ensuring free and open passage.