1. The impact of Geographic factors on major events
TAKS Objective 2
The impact of Geographic factors on major events

2. The Panama Canal Shorter route Spanish-American War
Made us realize that we needed a shorter route between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.
Central American canal
Would make global shipping quicker, easier, and cheaper.
California Gold Rush in 1849.
Also allow quicker ocean to ocean travel during a war.

3. Panama Canal Buying the land Spooner Act
Panama was a colony of Columbia
In 1879, the French purchased a 25 year concession on the land to build a canal
France abandoned it after 10 years due mostly to yellow fever
France sold the remaining 2 years to the US for $40 million
Spooner Act
Passed in 1902 and authorized the purchase
Required them to negotiate a treaty with Columbia
Negotiations went no where
Columbia was holding out until the concession expired
Wanted to sell it themselves for a higher price.

4. Panama Canal Independence Building the Canal
Roosevelt told the French that if they wanted to organize a revolution in Panama, the US wouldn’t interfere.
Revolt started in Nov. 1903
US recognized Panama as an independent nation
Became the protector of Panama
Panama gave us a 10 mile wide strip of land in return
Building the Canal
The canal was started in 1904 and finished in 1914.
Built by several men from several different nations
Construction involved overcoming rocky and unstable terrain and mosquito infested swamps
5,000+ workers died from diseases and accidents
However, the Isthmus of Panama was a perfect location because it is the narrowest portion of Central America.

6. Panama Canal Locks Changing water level along the canal
Allows water to raise or lower to equal water level in the next section of the canal