The Panama Canal

LEARNING TARGET: I will be able to explain how the construction of the Panama Canal was an example of imperialism.

SS.H.4.6-8.LC: Explain multiple causes and effects of historical events.

SS.H.4.6-8.MdC: Compare the central historical arguments in secondary works across multiple media.

SS.H.4.6-8.MC: Organize applicable evidence into a coherent argument about the past.

Key Terms

Isthmus - a narrow strip of land with sea on either side, forming a link between two larger areas of land.
Canal - an artificial waterway constructed to allow the passage of boats or ships inland.
Lock - a device used for raising and lowering boats, ships and other watercraft between stretches of water of different levels on river and canal waterways.
Hay–Bunau-Varilla Treaty - Agreement between Panama and the United States that gave the U.S. control of the Canal Zone in Panama in exchange for $10 million dollars, and $250,000 dollars each year.
Panama Canal - Waterway across the Isthmus of Panama that connects the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.

The U.S. assisted Panama in its rebellion against Columbia.
The U.S. bought control of the Canal Zone in exchange for $10 million dollars, and $250,000 dollars each year.
Construction removed 240 million cubic yards of dirt.
The Panama Canal used a series of locks to raise and lower boats into Lake Gatun.

The Panama Canal

Study the political cartoon. In order to analyze the meaning of the image, try to work out answers to the following question.

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