Podcast Summary: "Trump and the Panama Canal"
History As It Happens
Host: Martin Di Caro
Release Date: January 14, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Trump and the Panama Canal," hosted by Martin DeCaro on History As It Happens, the discussion delves into the historical and contemporary significance of the Panama Canal, focusing on former President Donald Trump's controversial remarks about potentially regaining control of the canal. The episode features insights from Jonathan Brown, Professor Emeritus of History at the University of Texas at Austin, an expert on Latin America and author of The Weak and the Omar Torrijos Panama and the Non-Aligned World.

Historical Background of the Panama Canal

The Panama Canal, an engineering marvel, has been a strategic asset for global trade and military movement since its completion in the early 20th century. Initially controlled by the United States under the 1903 treaty, the canal was a focal point of American imperialism and exerted significant influence over Panama.

Key Historical Points:

• French Endeavors and American Takeover (1904): The French attempt to build the canal failed due to technological and geographical challenges. The United States assumed control, leading to Panama’s independence from Colombia in 1903 through a covert operation orchestrated by American agents (Jonathan Brown, [03:22]).

• Treaty of 1977: Signed by President Jimmy Carter and Panamanian dictator Omar Torrijos, this treaty marked the gradual transfer of canal ownership to Panama, culminating on December 31, 1999. It also established canal neutrality, allowing the U.S. military to defend the canal if necessary.

Panamanian Struggle for Sovereignty

Panama’s quest for sovereignty over the canal was driven by long-standing resentment towards American control and a desire to assert national pride and independence.

Notable Developments:

• 1959 Invasion and 1964 Riots: Anti-American sentiments led to violent uprisings, including a significant riot over flag rights in the Canal Zone, prompting both nations to negotiate a new treaty (Jonathan Brown, [04:00], [19:43]).

• Omar Torrijos’ Coup (1968): Torrijos took power in a bloodless coup, focusing on renegotiating the 1903 treaty to secure full Panamanian control over the canal (Jonathan Brown, [29:26], [31:56]).

Debate Over the 1977 Panama Canal Treaties

The ratification of the 1977 treaties sparked intense debate within the United States, notably between prominent figures like Ronald Reagan and William F. Buckley.

Key Arguments:

• William F. Buckley ([00:17], [06:00], [28:08], [43:13]): Argued that ratifying the treaty would nullify the 1903 agreement, leaving the U.S. as a mere foreign power in Panama with potential risks of expropriation and nationalization by the Panamanian government.

• Ronald Reagan ([00:07], [00:38], [05:25], [08:57], [28:08]): Supported the treaty, emphasizing mutual benefits, enhanced U.S. security under the 1972 treaties, and fostering international respect and friendship.

Notable Quote:

• William F. Buckley ([06:00], [43:13]): "Ratification of the new treaty would immediately cancel that treaty of 1903. The Canal Zone would cease to exist. We would simply be a foreign power with property in Panama."

Donald Trump's Controversial Stance

In the episode, Martin DeCaro addresses former President Donald Trump's recent statements advocating for the U.S. to reclaim the Panama Canal, citing unfounded claims about Chinese control and unfair toll rates.

Key Points:

• Trump’s Claims ([00:51] - [43:35], [45:19]-[51:10]): Trump asserts that China operates the canal, charges Americans higher tolls, and mismanages the canal’s operations. He suggests military intervention as a possible recourse to "take back" the canal.

• Reality Check: Jonathan Brown counters Trump's assertions, clarifying that China does not control the canal but has an expanding economic presence in Panama through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative. Brown emphasizes Panama’s sovereignty and lack of incentive to renegotiate the treaty.

Notable Quotes:

• Donald Trump ([00:51] - [10:48], [43:13], [45:19]-[51:10]): "China's at both ends of the Panama Canal. China's running the Panama Canal well. The Panama Canal is a disgrace. We gave it away for a dollar. They charge more for our ships… They morally violated [the agreement]."

• Jonathan Brown ([49:26] - [51:10]): "China has slowly, roughly from Jimmy Carter's period, 1976 to the present, China has slowly been doing more business… There is no indication, however, that Panama wants China to control the canal any more than it wanted the United States to own and operate it from 1914 until 1999."

China’s Growing Influence in Panama

While China does not control the Panama Canal, its economic footprint in Panama has grown substantially, raising strategic concerns.

Key Developments:

• Economic Investments: Chinese companies like Land Bridge Group and CK Hutchinson Holdings now operate ports at both ends of the canal, part of China’s broader Belt and Road Initiative.

• Strategic Concerns: Experts like Greg Curley from the Atlantic Council highlight potential dual-use infrastructure and strategic maneuvering, though there is no evidence Panama desires Chinese control over the canal.

Notable Quote:

• Jonathan Brown ([10:48]): "China is basically taking it over. China's at both ends of the Panama Canal."

Expert Insights: Jonathan Brown

Jonathan Brown provides a comprehensive analysis of the historical and current dynamics surrounding the Panama Canal.

Key Insights:

• Imperialistic Origins: The 1903 independence of Panama was a covert American maneuver to secure canal rights, fostering long-term resentment.

• Impact of Treaty Ratification: Brown argues that the U.S. gained international respect and reduced military expenditures by ceding control, while Panama benefited from full sovereignty and economic growth.

• Trump’s Misconceptions: Brown emphasizes that Trump's claims about Chinese control are unfounded and highlights the defensive vulnerabilities of the canal, questioning the practicality and legality of any military intervention.

Notable Quotes:

• Jonathan Brown ([31:56]): "Ronald Reagan did nothing to stop the transition. He realized that this was not a danger to American security."

• Jonathan Brown ([51:30]): "What will the army of Panama do if the United States attempts to take over Panama once again? Wouldn't they, at first sight of US warplanes go out there and destroy the canal? Probably, yes."

Implications and Conclusions

The episode concludes by underscoring the enduring significance of the Panama Canal in U.S.-Panama relations and global trade dynamics. Trump's rhetoric brings historical tensions to the forefront, highlighting the complexities of imperialism, sovereignty, and international diplomacy.

Key Takeaways:

• Historical Legacy: The transfer of the Panama Canal was a pivotal moment in reducing American imperialism and fostering regional respect.

• Current Geopolitical Climate: China's growing economic presence in Panama is a strategic development, though it does not equate to operational control of the canal.

• Future Outlook: The U.S. must navigate contemporary geopolitical challenges with an informed understanding of historical contexts, avoiding impulsive rhetoric that could destabilize established international agreements.

Final Notable Comment:

• Martin DeCaro ([52:42]): "What might Trumpism look like once he's left his mark on government after another term as president? What about conservatism, its past and future?"

Closing Thoughts

This episode effectively bridges a century-old historical issue with contemporary political discourse, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of the Panama Canal's role in international relations. Through expert analysis and historical context, History As It Happens invites listeners to reflect on the enduring impacts of past decisions on present-day geopolitical strategies.

Stay Tuned:
In the next episode, Martin DeCaro will explore the legacy of Trumpism and its implications for the future of conservatism, featuring guest Damon Linker.