The Panama Canal

As the United States economy grew, the need to have easy access to the Pacific Ocean was necessary. United States leaders then proposed to build a canal to connect the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean. Theodore Roosevelt wanted this to be created so badly that he would not let anything get in his way. Many people could interpret this political cartoon in a negative way. I interpreted this cartoon as though he is scooping out the Columbians that could stop him from building the Panama Canal. He is ignoring Colombia's sovereignty and is supporting the Panamanian revolution against Colombian rule. The artist of this political cartoon uses analogy and labeling as techniques. The analogy in the cartoon is comparing Theodore Roosevelt to a "man who can make dirt fly" or in other words, a construction worker. Labeling is used on the shovel Roosevelt is holding, banners the people are holding, and around where he is digging for the Panama Canal. This cartoon supports my position by showing Theodore Roosevelt in a negative way. He is helping the people of Panama revolt against Cuban rule so he can get the canal that he wants to build.

"American Experience." PBS. PBS, n.d. Web. 8 Feb. 2016. <http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/teachers-resources/panama-guide/>.