If you continue browsing the site, you agree to the use of cookies on this website. The new Panamanian government authorized French businessman Philippe Bunau-Varilla, to negotiate a treaty with the United States. The Canal's construction, however, was not simple, and required the U.S. to flex its military muscle and even instigate a rebellion by Panamanian nationalists against Colombia. It serves more than 140 maritime routes to over 80 countries. The Panama Canal vs. The Suez Canal The first thing you should know is that the Panama Canal represents the principal source of trade across the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Copy. Debate continues to swirl around issues of why the U.S. turned the Canal over to Panama, Panamanian distrust of the U.S. Government in general, and the imperialistic image associated with U.S. employees that administered and lived in the Canal Zone. Also, imports in the Panama Canal enable United States consumers to achieve needed products they need to live. Why Panama There has to be an examination of the functional ability of the canal when expanded to estimate yearly vessel traffic. Explanation: Prior to the Panama Canal vessels going from the East to West coast had to travel all the way down South America and Round Cape Horn (infamous for atrocious weather and storms) then all the way back up the West coast of South America. Panama Canal Significance - eNotes.com To make a connection between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans To create shipping Why History of the Panama Canal. Importance of the Panama Canal for International Trade