What is the history of the Panama Canal and why is Trump threatening to take control of it again?

The Panama Canal is one of the most important waterways in the world. It connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, allowing ships to avoid having to go around South America. Let’s take a look at the history of the canal and find out why US President Donald Trump once threatened to take control of it again.

Construction of the Canal

The idea of ​​building a canal through Panama dates back to the early 1500s when Spanish explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa first envisioned a shortcut between the oceans. However, actual construction began in the late 1800s. The French attempted to build the canal under the leadership of Ferdinand de Lesseps, who had previously built the Suez Canal. Unfortunately, the project failed due to diseases such as malaria and yellow fever and financial problems.

In 1904, the United States took over construction. Under the leadership of President Theodore Roosevelt, the US successfully completed the construction of the Panama Canal in 1914 using modern technology and a better understanding of diseases. The canal allowed US ships to move quickly between oceans, strengthening America’s global influence.

Control of the Canal

For many years, the US controlled the Panama Canal, operating it and profiting from tolls levied on ships passing through it. However, Panama wanted full control of the canal, which led to negotiations. In 1977, US President Jimmy Carter and Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos signed the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, agreeing that Panama would regain control of the canal in 1999.

Trump’s Threat to Regaining Control

In 2019, Donald Trump made headlines by suggesting that the US might try to “regain control” of the Panama Canal. His statement came after concerns about China’s growing influence in the region. Trump believed that China’s investments in Panama could pose a threat to US interests. He felt the US should have more control over such a vital trade route.

However, Panama strongly rejected Trump’s comments, as the canal is a vital part of the country’s sovereignty and economy.