Panama. . .

(Panama. . .)

The best song, according to many, from Van Halen. Or The Path Between the Seas ? In 1977, author David McCollough released the eponymously named work about the history of the Panama Canal. A short-cut between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans had long been envisaged. Previously, a vessel had to sail the tip of South America where the violent seas around Cape Horn proved the foundering of many a ship.


So, a "canal" across central America, Panama had the shortest distance to cut the alternate route, but it proved no easy task. The French had been the first to attempt constructing a channel but the attempt failed after a few years. Then American President Theordore Roosevelt and with his will and very good project managers, the center of Panama was flooded, billions of tons of rock were removed, and two sets of locks were constructed, one for each Ocean. The Panama Canal opened in 1914. The event also marked how the New World overtook the Old as 1914 was the start of the First World War.


Like President Roosevelt, who got the Canal built, and after the President Carter returned it to Panama proper, now, President Trump. complaining that Canal tolls are too expensive and "very un-fair." In the same hyperbole by which he wants to turn Canada into the 51st State, make a bid for Greenland, President-Elect Trump is considering to re-taking the Panama Canal.


Of course, the Panamanians would object and they are. They should know that Panama is only independent because President Roosevelt arranged its separation from Columbia. Today, President Trump is threatening to re-occupy the District, because this path between the seas remains vital to Northern Hemisphere and American National Security. The real threat is China and if a foothold can be gained by them, Beijing would be in a position to "restrict" traffic.


Which is the whole idea. 


Merry Christmas !

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