Panama to Patagonia: The Isthmian Canal and the West Coast Countries of South America

A historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the economic and political implications of the Panama Canal on the west coast countries of South America during its construction phase, which began in 1905. It addresses the anticipated changes in trade, commerce, and industrial development resulting from this monumental engineering project. The opening of the book sets the stage for a thorough examination of the canal's economic impact, drawing attention to the historical contexts and perspectives of the countries involved. Pepper discusses the long-held doubts about the progress of Spanish-American republics and juxtaposes this with a hopeful outlook for their future as influenced by the canal. He highlights the geographical significance of the Andes, challenges misconceptions about population growth in South America, and emphasizes the potential for diverse trade routes that could reshape the region’s economic landscape, particularly in relation to trade with North America and Europe. This introduction hints at a nuanced take on the interplay between infrastructure and national advancement, inviting readers to consider both the immediate and long-term effects of the canal on the economies of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Chile, and Bolivia.