In your own words, explain why Theodore Roosevelt wanted to build the Panama Canal.(1 point)

- To help Panama expand
- To test out new innovations, such as excavators.
- To better American commerce and military capability.
- To stop European powers from interferring in Latin America.

1 answer

Theodore Roosevelt wanted to build the Panama Canal primarily to better American commerce and military capability. The canal would provide a faster and more efficient route for ships traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, saving time and money for American businesses and allowing for quicker deployment of military assets. Additionally, the canal would also help to prevent European powers from interfering in Latin America, as it would give the United States more control over the region.