1. Middle America: Middle America: Central America and the Caribbean

2. Region that includes Central America There are 7 countries in Central America Region that includes Central America There are 7 countries in Central America

3. Panama is located on the narrowest part of the isthmus between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

4. Panama Canal One of the largest and most difficult engineering projects ever the first attempt to construct a canal began in 1880 under French leadership. attempt failed and 21,900 workers died The United States took over the project.

5. Panama Canal President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt of the United States gave the order to build the canal Attempted and completed by the United States in the early 1900s Opened in 1914. Cost the United States around $375,000,000 plagued by problems, including disease (particularly malaria and yellow fever) and landslides. Yellow fever – infectious tropical disease spread by mosquitoes a total of 27,500 workmen are estimated to have died in the French and American efforts.

6. Panama Canal Problems Panama faces today with the canal: The canal is reaching maximum capacity Ships are getting too big Competition from the Suez Canal (Egypt)

7. Locate Panama on group map Compare and contrast the advantages ( Pros) and disadvantages (Cons) of Panama’s location in a discussion with your group by creating a T Chart on the back of the group map. Then Share with another group your group’s pros and cons of Panama’s location. Identify group’s favorite Pro and Con. What is the Theme of your Pro and Con ( Economic, Government, Cultural, Environmental, Demography,Etc) Discuss why the U.S. chose to invest in an alliance with Panama.