Its construction, which concluded in 1914, was no easy feat, it followed a failed attempt and a decade of grueling work. Originally completed under the oversight of the United States, the canal was under American control for over 60 years, functioning almost like an independent country within Panama. Understandably, this situation led to growing frustration among Panamanians, who eventually succeeded in reclaiming sovereignty over this vital waterway.
But why did the United States take control of the canal in the first place? And how did Panama ultimately regain it? To understand, we must go back to the 16th century, when Vasco Núñez de Balboa first crossed the Isthmus of Panama. Since then, this narrow strip of land has been highly coveted due to its strategic significance. Over the centuries, ideas for a transoceanic route evolved, from early overland trails to a railway in 1855 and, eventually, the ambitious dream of a canal.
From French Ambitions to American Control
The first attempt to construct the canal was led by French diplomat Ferdinand de Lesseps, the same man behind the Suez Canal. Beginning in 1880, the project faced insurmountable challenges, including design flaws, rampant disease, and financial collapse, ultimately leaving over 20,000 workers dead. When the French efforts failed, the United States saw an opportunity. Initially considering a route through Nicaragua, they instead purchased the abandoned French project for $40 million.
In 1903, the U.S. negotiated with Colombia, then sovereign over Panama, but when Colombia rejected the agreement, the U.S. supported Panama’s independence movement. Shortly after declaring independence, Panama signed the Hay-Bunau Varilla Treaty, granting the U.S. control of the canal «as if it were sovereign.» Over the next decade, the U.S. completed the canal using a revolutionary lock system, officially opening it in 1914. However, the treaty’s terms fuelled decades of resentment among Panamanians, who saw this as an affront to their sovereignty.
America and the panama canal
Throughout the mid-20th century, Panamanians protested U.S. control, leading to pivotal moments such as the 1964 «Day of the Martyrs,» where clashes over the display of Panama’s flag in the Canal Zone left 20 dead. These events, combined with global decolonisation efforts, pressured the U.S. to reconsider its position. In 1977, the Torrijos-Carter Treaties were signed, setting the stage for the gradual transfer of the canal to Panama.
The handover was completed on 31 December 1999, marking a historic victory for Panama. Today, the canal connects over 140 maritime routes, 1,700 ports, and 160 countries, standing as a testament to Panama’s resilience and as a symbol of national pride.
Recent Political Events: The Canal of Panama in the Spotlight
In recent years, the Canal of Panama has once again found itself at the centre of political discussions, particularly following Donald Trump’s tenure as President of the United States. Trump’s administration voiced dissatisfaction over the rising tolls imposed on American vessels passing through the canal, framing it as an issue of unfair treatment. These remarks sparked a firm response from Panama, which emphasised its sovereign right to determine pricing and operational policies for the canal.
Panama’s government, standing by its position, highlighted that the canal’s tolls are consistent with international standards and vital for maintaining its world-class infrastructure.
A Unifying Cause for Panama
In the past few days, protests, speeches, and discussions have shown how much the Canal of Panama means to the country. Politicians from all sides, even those who usually disagree, have come together to defend the canal from outside pressure. This rare unity highlights that the canal is not just an economic resource, it is a strong symbol of Panama’s independence and pride.
The support for the canal extends beyond politics. People across Panama are joining protests, waving flags, and proudly shouting, “El Canal es de Panamá” (The Canal Belongs to Panama). This phrase has become a powerful message, showing the country’s determination to protect what is theirs.
This moment reminds us of the struggles Panama faced to take back control of the canal and the deep pride the nation has for it today. What do you think about this situation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!