Theodore Roosevelt's "Big Stick" diplomacy shaped America's rise as a global power. He combined diplomatic persuasion with military might, expanding U.S. influence in Latin America and beyond. This approach led to increased interventions and the assertion of American interests on the world stage.

Roosevelt's foreign policy culminated in the construction of the Panama Canal and mediation of the Russo-Japanese War. These actions showcased America's growing technological and diplomatic prowess, solidifying its position as a major player in international affairs and commerce.

Roosevelt's "Big Stick" Foreign Policy

Roosevelt's "big stick" diplomacy

• Foreign policy approach emphasizing diplomatic persuasion backed by threat of military force
• Negotiated peacefully while maintaining strong military as deterrent
• Expanded U.S. influence and power projection in Western Hemisphere and beyond
• Asserted U.S. as global power willing to intervene in international affairs
• Increased American involvement in Latin America and Caribbean often to protect U.S. economic interests (Cuba, Dominican Republic)
• Established Roosevelt Corollary to Monroe Doctrine justifying U.S. intervention in region to maintain stability and prevent European interference
• Utilized gunboat diplomacy to project power and protect American interests abroad

Construction of Panama Canal

• U.S. sought to build canal across Isthmus of Panama to improve naval mobility and trade between Atlantic and Pacific Oceans
• Colombia rejected U.S. proposal for canal construction in Panama which it controlled
• Roosevelt supported Panamanian rebels in fight for independence from Colombia
• Quickly recognized Panama as independent nation after successful rebellion
• Negotiated Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty with Panama securing U.S. control over Canal Zone
• Canal construction began in 1904 and completed in 1914 overcoming engineering challenges and tropical diseases (malaria, yellow fever)
• Demonstrated U.S. determination and technological prowess
• Exemplified Roosevelt's willingness to use military force and diplomatic pressure to achieve U.S. goals
• Showcased U.S. as major player in global affairs and commerce
• Highlighted strategic importance of Caribbean and Latin America to U.S. interests (trade routes, naval bases)

U.S. mediation in Russo-Japanese War

• Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905) conflict between Russia and Japan over territorial control in Manchuria and Korea
• War resulted in Japanese victories but both sides suffered heavy losses
• Roosevelt offered to mediate peace negotiations between Russia and Japan
• Hosted Portsmouth Peace Conference in Portsmouth, New Hampshire in 1905
• Skillfully navigated negotiations balancing interests of both parties
• Treaty of Portsmouth ended war with Japan gaining control over Korea and leased territories in Manchuria while Russia agreed to evacuate Manchuria and recognize Japan's interests in Korea
• Established U.S. as major diplomatic power capable of resolving international conflicts
• Enhanced Roosevelt's reputation as peacemaker and strengthened U.S. prestige globally
• Marked emergence of Japan as rising power in East Asia challenging Western dominance (Britain, France)
• Shifted balance of power in region and set stage for future conflicts (World War II)

Global Power Projection and Economic Influence

• Roosevelt sent the Great White Fleet on a world tour to demonstrate U.S. naval power and global reach
• Promoted Dollar Diplomacy to expand U.S. economic influence and protect American business interests abroad
• Sought to counterbalance European spheres of influence in various regions through diplomatic and economic means