How did the United States get permission to build the Panama Canal?(1 point)
1. The US bought the work contracts from France
2. The US helped Panama win its independence
3. The US didn't get permission, they started building
4. The US signed a contract with the Central American countries
2. The US helped Panama win its independence
The correct answer is 2. The US helped Panama win its independence.
The United States obtained permission to build the Panama Canal by helping Panama gain its independence from Colombia. The US provided support to Panama during its struggle for independence, including naval presence to deter Colombian forces. Following Panama's successful revolution in 1903, the newly independent country and the United States signed the Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty, granting the US the rights to build and operate the Panama Canal.
To determine the answer, we need to examine the historical context of the construction of the Panama Canal. The correct answer is number 2: The US helped Panama win its independence.
To explain further, here's the background information:
In the late 19th century, the French had initiated the construction of the Panama Canal but faced various challenges, including engineering problems and widespread disease. Due to financial difficulties and high death rates among workers, the French abandoned the project.
The United States became interested in building a canal for its strategic and economic advantages, as it would provide a shorter route between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. In order to gain permission, the US supported Panama's independence from Colombia.
Here's how the US achieved permission:
1. Encouraging Panamanian independence: The US played a role in encouraging and supporting Panama's movement for independence from Colombia. In 1903, Panama declared its independence, facilitated by US political and military support.
2. Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty: Following Panama's independence, the US quickly entered into negotiations with the newly established Panamanian government. The Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty was signed in 1903, granting the US control over a 10-mile-wide strip of land for the construction of the canal, known as the Panama Canal Zone.
Therefore, the correct answer is option 2: The US helped Panama win its independence.