Final answer:
The United States wanted to build a canal through Central America to facilitate trade and transportation, enhance military capabilities, and assert its influence in global affairs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major reasons why the United States wanted to build a canal through Central America were to facilitate trade and transportation, enhance military capabilities, and assert its influence in global affairs. Firstly, a canal would provide a shorter route for ships traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, saving time and costs. Secondly, it would bolster the U.S. Navy's ability to quickly move ships between the two oceans, improving defense and national security. Lastly, controlling a canal would increase the United States' prominence and dominance in international trade and diplomacy.
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