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French Abandon Operation
The French abandon an unsuccessful attempt to build a canal through Panama. -
Senate Approves
The U.S. Senate votes in favor of the canal and authorizes the government to build it. -
Columbia Declines
The United States offers a treaty to Columbia. They decline due to unacceptable financial terms. It would have provided the U.S. with the land and rights to build a canal through Panama. -
Panama Revolution
Roosevelt sends U.S. warships to Panama City to help Panama declare its independence from Columbia. -
Panama Independence
Panama declares independence -
Panama Permission
Panama negotiates a 10 mile strip of land for a canal with the United States for over 10 million. -
French Property
The U.S. acquires French property relating to the canal for $40 million. -
Construction Begins
Construction on the canal begins. -
Roosevelt Visits
President Theodore Roosevelt travels to Panama and becomes the first U.S. president to travel abroad while in office. -
Canal Completion
The canal officially opened on this day.