The American Canal in Panama: The Relinquishment

The Panama Canal is a marvel of engineering that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, revolutionizing global trade. While the canal is now under Panamanian control, it has a rich history that includes the American Canal's relinquishment and the impact it had on both countries.

The American Canal in Panama

The story of the American Canal in Panama begins in the late 19th century when France embarked on a failed attempt to construct a canal. After their unsuccessful endeavor, the United States took on the ambitious project in 1904, with the goal of creating a shortcut for ships between the two oceans.

The construction of the canal was an extraordinary feat. It involved excavating trenches through dense jungles, constructing locks, and overcoming numerous challenges posed by the natural landscape. The American Canal, completed in 1914, forever changed global trade patterns and became a symbol of American innovation and power.

THE AMERICAN CANAL IN PANAMA: THE RELINQUISHMENT

by Roberto Calasso(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6123 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	458 pages

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The Relinquishment

While the American Canal in Panama brought immense economic benefits, it also raised sovereignty concerns. The canal passed through Panamanian territory, which sparked disputes and prompted negotiations between the United States and Panama.

After years of diplomatic efforts, the Torrijos-Carter Treaties were signed in 1977, which outlined the canal's gradual transfer of control to Panama. The treaty declared that the United States would transfer full control over the canal to Panama on December 31, 1999.

This event, known as the relinquishment of the American Canal, marked a significant turning point in Panama's history. It represented the culmination of Panama's pursuit of sovereignty and the end of American control over an engineering marvel that shaped the world's economy for decades.

The Impact of Relinquishment

The transfer of the canal's ownership to Panama had a profound impact on both countries. For Panama, it meant reclaiming full control over a vital waterway that brought significant revenue and economic opportunities. The canal became a symbol of national pride, representing Panama's ability to manage a complex international trade route.

For the United States, the relinquishment meant the end of an era and the loss of a strategic asset. The canal had played a crucial role in maintaining American dominance in the Western Hemisphere and facilitating trade between the coasts. However, the transfer signaled a shift in global power dynamics and a new chapter in international relations.

Legacy and Future

The legacy of the American Canal in Panama and its subsequent relinquishment continues to shape the relationship between the two nations. Today, the Panama Canal remains a vital link in global trade, serving as a conduit for billions of dollars worth of goods every year. It remains a symbol of human ingenuity, showcasing the potential for collaboration between nations to achieve remarkable feats.

Looking to the future, the Panama Canal continues to evolve. Expansion projects have been undertaken to accommodate larger vessels, further enhancing its significance in global commerce. As technology advances, there may come a time when new canals are constructed, revolutionizing trade routes once again and continuing the legacy of the American Canal in Panama.

THE AMERICAN CANAL IN PANAMA: THE RELINQUISHMENT

by Roberto Calasso(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6123 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	458 pages

FREE

A series of Treaties occurred from 1903 through 1955 that slowly unraveled the right of the United States to effectively govern the Canal.

This book begins with my life while working as an employee of the United States government, but it could have been written about any government employee. 

President Carter used all the offices of the government to clear the way for the treaty that gave away the canal. 

Th newly elected President, Reagan, decided to push back on the drift left in Central and South America. 

As a pretext over repeated attacks against Americans, and threats against the Canal, the United States invaded Panama and removed the dictator, Noriega, from power.  In his place, the United States installed Endara as president of Panama. When the Balladares Presidency replaced Endara, corruption increased tenfold.

The Canal piers system was put up for bids.  Through bribery, China won that bid.  The Clinton administration supported that decision. 

  The Clinton administration covered up human trafficking within its own State Department, China, and Panama.  Even before Clinton became president, the Chinese government was intent on corrupting the United States at every level.

The third locks were opened in 2016.  The direct influence in the Panama Canal by the United States was essentially terminated in the year 2000.