Answer:
The main reason the United States decided to build the Panama Canal was to expand foreign trade and more easily move the military around the world.
The Panama Canal was a strategic project for the United States, as it provided a shortcut for ships traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, saving time and fuel. This allowed the U.S. to expand its foreign trade and project power in the region. Additionally, the canal provided a secure route for the U.S. military to move troops and supplies between the two oceans, which was especially important during times of conflict.
The U.S. government also saw the Panama Canal as a way to open up economic opportunities for the developing nations in Latin America. By building the canal, the U.S. aimed to facilitate trade and investment in the region, which would help to promote economic growth and stability.
Finally, the U.S. government hoped to collect revenue by charging European nations to use the canal. The tolls collected from the canal were expected to generate significant revenue for the U.S. government, which would help to offset the costs of building and maintaining the canal.
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