Chapter 4
Latin America
Exploring Mexico and Central America

Section 3: Panama: Where Two Oceans Meet

A. As You Read
Directions: As you read Section 3, fill in the blocks under the table below with details about the history of the Panama Canal.

History of the Panama Canal

1800s		Early 1900s		Late 1900s
1. 1881 - Columbia grants a French company the rights to build a canal through Panama, which was then a part of Columbia. The company goes bankrupt. Diseases slow the work.		2. 1902 - The United States buys the bankrupt company. 1903 - The United States helps Panama revolt against Columbia. Panama gives the United States the right to build and control the canal. Doctors successfully fight diseases.		3. In 1999, the canal came under the control of the Panamanian government.

Directions: As your read Section 3, list the reasons why the people or Panama fought for control of the Panama Canal.

4. People in Panama thought the canal gave the United States too much control over Panama's affairs. The canal gave the United States a great deal of power in Panama.

B. Reviewing Key Terms
Directions: In the blank provided below, write the definition for the following key term.

5. lock

A section of a waterway in which ships are raised or lowered by adjusting the water level