by C H Forbes-Lindsay. 1907. 384p

The geographical context of Panama is that it is located east of Colon, with the Canal running south-east to the Pacific. Politically, Panama and Colombia formed the United Sovereign States of New Granada after gaining independence from Spain. The development of the canal involved the government securing rights for its construction, which limited competition.

U.S. involvement was significant, as the U.S. consul intervened during Colombian threats in Panama, and early canal proposals faced various challenges. Additionally, the Panama Railroad played a crucial role in commerce and served as a precursor to the canal project.