Why The United States Occupation Of The Republic Of Panama

The Republic of Panama contains a rich history that is deeply involved with international affair because of its location between the Atlantic and Pacific. This location is ideal for a connecting canal to allow ships simple passage, rather than sailing to the bottom of the globe and circumventing the tip of South America. The Republic of Panama is also known as an economic focal point for global trade due to its importance as an expedient passage for trading vessels. Despite this Panama did not own the Canal in the beginning, but rather the United States of America did during their occupation of the country. This occupation led to a domination over the country’s economics, culture, and land. The U.S. treated Panama as an imperial colony for
Zone remained the heart of the zone long after construction. The border between the Zone and Panama-proper appeared more akin to two opposing countries borders, rather than a separation of districts. This division between the Zone and Panama extended to the economic environment as well. With the Panama Canal behind the Zone’s borders the financial benefits of the canal were restricted. When the Canal began construction under the U.S. the Panamanian government expected boosts to the economy. The expected benefits of the Canal included new businesses for the citizens of Panama, new trading relations with foreign entities, taxes on shipments crossing the Panamanian border, and further foreign investments to maintain this critical infrastructure. These expectations never came to fruition. During the U.S. occupation of the Zone and the Canal, Panamanians were largely disregarded and did not receive any benefits from the canal. Statistics state that at most the average non-U.S. worker on the canal made up 7% of the force, and these jobs would largely go to West Indians rather than Panamanians. The U.S. prevented services from Panamanians reaching the ships as well; the Zone’s marines enforcing a law passed by the U.S. that banned the natives from offering transitioning vessels repairs, food, maintenance, or any entertainment. The local economy suffered further as the U.S. did all in its power to persuade sailors and Zonians
in the early and mid-20th century. Panama and its people suffered greatly from discrimination, economic turmoil, and neglect during the United States’ occupation of their country through the Canal Zone. Despite this Panama, after they managed to obtain full rights to their land and the Canal itself, began a growth in economics, culture, and government that is continuing to this