The Global Story Why does Trump want the Panama Canal?
Jan 28, 2025
Julie Green, a Professor of American Studies, and Michelle Fleury, BBC's North America business correspondent, dive deep into the Panama Canal's storied past and its recent resurgence in U.S. political discourse. They discuss Trump’s ambitions to reclaim the canal, viewed as a strategic move against China's growing influence. Green highlights the engineering marvel behind the canal, while Fleury analyzes the economic implications and rising transit fees that are reshaping U.S.-Panama relations.
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French Canal Failure
- Before US involvement, France attempted to build the canal in the 1880s.
- Led by Ferdinand de Lesseps, the project failed due to disease, corruption, and mismanagement, resulting in over 20,000 deaths.
US Success Factors
- The US succeeded where France failed due to advancements in industrialization, technology, and disease understanding.
- By understanding and mitigating yellow fever and malaria, the US significantly reduced deaths.
Panama's Birth
- Panama's creation was partially driven by the canal project.
- After Colombia rejected a US treaty, the US supported Panama's independence and secured canal control.