Conclusion
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The Panama Canal Treaties were negotiated for an extended time period that spanned multiple U.S. presidencies. The treaties were ratified very narrowly by the U.S. senate. Although inaction would have been the more popular option, President Carter and the Senators who voted for the treaties took political risks. Many of the arguments and predictions made by the opponents of the treaty have not come true. The revenue from the Panama Canal has increased, the U.S. has not lost respect around the world, and the Canal has not been taken over by hostile countries. The Carter-Torrijos treaties have been successful in preserving the long term interests of the U.S. and satisfying the desires of the Panamanians. |
Carter reflected on the passage of the treaty
Source: Jimmy Carter Library
"Were the treaties worth what we paid them? The answer is yes.
We are a nation that believes in equality, justice, honesty, and truth. As I and the doubtful senators and representatives studied the history and the facts concerning the Panama Canal, we became convinced that these principles were involved - so certain we did not flinch, despite the political consequences... Some fine members of Congress had to pay with their political careers for their votes during these long and difficult months. Their courage represents the best of American Government; I am proud of the role that I played in this dramatic and historic event....The benefits to Panama were clear, but to our country the treaties have been equally valuable. We(United States) have retained adequate control over the operation of the waterway, confirmed our right to defend the Canal, guaranteed our role in the development of any alternate sea-level canal to be built in the future, re-established good relations with our Panamanian friends and partners...." -Source: Keeping Faith - Memoirs of a President
We are a nation that believes in equality, justice, honesty, and truth. As I and the doubtful senators and representatives studied the history and the facts concerning the Panama Canal, we became convinced that these principles were involved - so certain we did not flinch, despite the political consequences... Some fine members of Congress had to pay with their political careers for their votes during these long and difficult months. Their courage represents the best of American Government; I am proud of the role that I played in this dramatic and historic event....The benefits to Panama were clear, but to our country the treaties have been equally valuable. We(United States) have retained adequate control over the operation of the waterway, confirmed our right to defend the Canal, guaranteed our role in the development of any alternate sea-level canal to be built in the future, re-established good relations with our Panamanian friends and partners...." -Source: Keeping Faith - Memoirs of a President
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