Vintage glossy 8 x 10 photo of Roosevelt with an emphatic grimace on his face, affixed to its original 10.75 x 14 mount, signed and inscribed as president in black ink on the mount, “With all good wishes for the success of the movement for Pan-American Peace and Friendship, Theodore Roosevelt, April 27th, 1908.” In very good condition, with edge rippling and scattered light surface marks to the photograph, scattered light toning and soiling to mount, light damp staining to bottom edge affecting the date, and a few edge creases and tears to mount.
This image and its message bears witness to America’s perhaps underhanded role in Panamanian politics in the early 20th century. In 1903, US forces thwarted efforts by Colombian troops to put down a rebellion in Panama, including a mild use of military might. Essentially “stealing” control of Panama from Colombia, the Roosevelt Administration soon signed an agreement in which the US was given possession and control of the area of the present-day Panama Canal—a prosperous arrangement for America. Without input from Panamanian authorities, TR began working to organize the country to serve the best interests of America—including paying off Panamanian soldiers to simply go home—allowing the US to take over the country’s military defense as well as its political possession! In light of such questionable “persuasive” techniques, no wonder Teddy would wish for “the success of the movement.” Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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