USA HISTORY

AMERICAN IMPERIALISM(1890 1919)

AMERICAN IMPERIALISM

[SOURCES]
How did the US gain the rights to build the Panama Canal?

(A) ** the US helped Panama achieve independence from Colombia

(B) a treaty with Colombia whom controlled Panama

(C) the US purchased the land from Panama for 7.2 million dollars

(D) the US helped Colombia put down a rebellion in Panama

EXPLANATIONS BELOW

Concept note-1: -With the help of the United States, a revolution occurred in Colombia that led to Panama’s proclaiming its independence on November 4, 1903. A scant two weeks later Panama signed a treaty allowing the U.S. to build, own, and control the Panama Canal.

Concept note-2: -In 1903, the United States negotiated a treaty with Colombia that granted the United States the right to construct and operate a canal for 100 years within a zone six-miles wide across Panama.

Concept note-3: -On November 6, 1903, the United States recognized the Republic of Panama, and on November 18 the Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty was signed with Panama, granting America exclusive and permanent possession of the Panama Canal Zone. In exchange, Panama received $10 million and an annuity of $250, 000 beginning nine years later.

Concept note-4: -In 1903, Panama declared its independence from Colombia in a U.S.-backed revolution and the U.S. and Panama signed the Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty, in which the U.S. agreed to pay Panama $10 million for a perpetual lease on land for the canal, plus $250, 000 annually in rent.

Concept note-5: -Answer and Explanation: The US supported the Panamanian rebellion against Columbia in order to get a favorable deal to build the Panama Canal.