President Roosevelt sent troops to support Panamanian rebels to fight Columbia for what reason?
President Roosevelt sent troops to support Panamanian rebels in their fight against Colombia to ensure the successful construction of the Panama Canal. The building of the canal had been a longstanding goal for the United States, as it would greatly enhance international trade and strengthen American influence in the region.
To understand this historical event, you can follow these steps:
1. Research the historical context: Study the relations between the United States and Latin American countries in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Look into the concept of the Monroe Doctrine and how it influenced American foreign policy in the region.
2. Learn about the importance of the Panama Canal: Explore the economic and strategic significance of constructing a canal connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Consider the potential benefits for trade, transportation, and military dominance.
3. Investigate the French efforts and setbacks: Look into the failed attempts by Ferdinand de Lesseps and the French to build the canal in Panama. Understand the financial and engineering challenges they faced, and how it led to their abandonment of the project.
4. Explore the negotiation attempts with Colombia: Discover how the United States initially negotiated with Colombia, which controlled Panama at the time, to secure rights to build the canal. Investigate the reasons why Colombia's Senate rejected the agreement in 1903.
5. Study Roosevelt's response and the Panama Canal Zone: Examine President Roosevelt's decision to support Panamanian rebels in their fight for independence from Colombia. Understand why he saw it as a necessary step to proceed with the construction of the canal. Learn about the subsequent establishment of the Panama Canal Zone, which was under American control until 1999.
By following these steps and conducting further research, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the reasons behind President Roosevelt's decision to send troops to support Panamanian rebels in their fight against Colombia.