Some of the key factors that motivated Roosevelt's belief in expansionism and his subsequent actions towards building the Panama Canal include:
1. Strategic Importance: Roosevelt recognized the strategic importance of a canal across the Isthmus of Panama, which would allow for faster and more efficient travel between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. He saw the canal as a way to improve the defense capabilities of the United States and enable the rapid movement of naval vessels between the coasts.
2. Economic Benefits: Roosevelt believed that the Panama Canal would bring significant economic benefits to the United States. He envisioned the increased trade and commerce that would result from the canal's construction, leading to economic growth and prosperity for the nation.
3. National Prestige: Building the Panama Canal was also seen as a way to enhance the international prestige of the United States. Roosevelt believed that the successful construction of such a major infrastructure project would showcase American engineering prowess and solidify the country's status as a global superpower.
4. Influence in Latin America: Roosevelt also saw the Panama Canal as an opportunity to assert U.S. influence in the region and maintain control over the vital trade route. He believed that the United States should play a dominant role in the affairs of the Western Hemisphere, which became known as the "Roosevelt Corollary" to the Monroe Doctrine.
Under President Roosevelt's leadership, the United States pursued negotiations with the Republic of Colombia to secure the rights to build the canal, but these efforts initially failed due to disputes over terms. In response, Roosevelt supported a Panamanian secession movement from Colombia in 1903, recognizing Panamanian independence shortly after. This paved the way for the United States to enter into a treaty with Panama for the construction of the Panama Canal.
While Roosevelt's expansionist policies were influential in the construction of the Panama Canal, it's important to note that several other factors and actions contributed to its successful completion, including the efforts and contributions of engineers, workers, and diplomatic negotiations with various stakeholders.