Thomson–Urrutia Treaty

Quick Facts: Who was Thomson–Urrutia Treaty?

Subject:

Thomson–Urrutia Treaty

Known for:

Treaty resolving US support for Panama's separation from Colombia, involving $25M payment.

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2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Foundation

The foundation of the Thomson–Urrutia Treaty was rooted in the unresolved political fallout from the separation of Panama from Colombia in 1903. The treaty aimed to provide a definitive resolution to the United States' prior support for this separation, which had created significant diplomatic tensions. Negotiations were crucial to establishing the framework for the financial and political concessions detailed within the agreement. These early stages set the stage for a major international reconciliation effort.

Breakthrough & Iconic Era

The breakthrough moment occurred with the signing of the treaty on April 6, 1914, by the United States. This was followed by Colombia's ratification on June 9, 1914, marking the initial acceptance of its terms. The core of the agreement involved the U.S. paying a substantial sum of $25 million dollars to Colombia. This payment was directly exchanged for Colombia's formal recognition of Panama's newly established independence status.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The treaty's enduring legacy is its successful resolution of a long-standing geopolitical dispute between two major nations. Although the treaty was signed in 1914, its final ratification by the U.S. Senate on April 20, 1921, cemented its historical impact. It provided a clear, financially backed mechanism to stabilize the region, thereby concluding the chapter of U.S. interventionism regarding the Isthmus of Panama. This established a new diplomatic precedent for the involved countries.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1903: 1903 Milestone — The foundation of the Thomson–Urrutia Treaty was rooted in the unresolved political fallout from the separation of Panama from Colombia in 1903.
2. 1914: 1914 Milestone — The breakthrough moment occurred with the signing of the treaty on April 6, 1914, by the United States.
3. 1921: 1921 Milestone — Senate on April 20, 1921, cemented its historical impact.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Thomson–Urrutia Treaty

True or False: “True or False: The primary compensation paid by the U.S. to Colombia under the treaty was $25 million, which was exchanged for recognition of Panama's independence.”

Answer (TRUE ⭕): The treaty stipulated that the U.S. paid $25 million to Colombia in return for Colombia's formal recognition of Panama's independence, resolving the 1903 separation issue.

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• Adolph Green — Historical peer (Born in 1914) (1914): American lyricist and playwright known for his long-running, witty partnership with Betty Comden.
• Aaron Beck — Historical peer (Born in 1921) (1921): Father of Cognitive Therapy and CBT, revolutionizing psychiatric treatment.
• ʻAbdu'l-Bahá — Historical peer (Died in 1921) (1921): Successor to Baháʼu'lláh and guiding light of the Baháʼí Faith.

Frequently Asked Questions about Thomson–Urrutia Treaty