Theodore RooseveltPresidency |
What famous canal was started during Roosevelt’s presidency? |
The United States wanted a canal built through Central America. Roosevelt wanted the canal to go through Panama, then under the control of Columbia. In January 1903, the United States signed a treaty which allowed the construction of the canal across Panama. When Columbia balked at the treaty, Roosevelt encouraged the Panamanians to rise up and declare their independence. The U.S. recognized Panama as an independent country. Construction began on the canal in 1904 and it was completed in 1914.