Panama Canal Zone

The Panama Canal Zone was a 553 mile² (1,432 km²) territory inside of Panama, consisting of the Panama Canal and an area extending 5 mi (8.1 km) on each side. Its border spanned two of Panama's provinces and was created on November 18, 1903 with the signing of the Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty.

Related Topics:
Panama - Panama Canal - Province - November 18 - 1903 - Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty

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From 1903 to 1977 the territory was controlled by the United States of America, which had built and financed the canal's construction. From 1977 to 1999 the canal itself was under joint U.S.-Panamanian control. In 1977 the Torrijos-Carter Treaties established the neutrality of the canal. http://www.infoplease.com/ce6/world/A0860218.html

Related Topics:
1903 - 1977 - United States of America - 1999 - Torrijos-Carter Treaties

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During U.S. control of the Canal Zone, the territory, apart from the canal itself, was used mainly for military purposes; however, approximately 3,000 American civilians (called "Zonians") made up the core of permanent residents. U.S. military usage ended when the zone returned to Panamanian control. It is now a tourist destination of sorts, especially for visiting cruise ships.

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The Panama Canal Zone was the birthplace of John McCain, Richard Prince, and Rod Carew.

Related Topics:
John McCain - Richard Prince - Rod Carew

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