Most Read · Tuesday, November 3, 1903
Roosevelt Said to Be Saving a Speech Called 'I Took the Isthmus' for Later
President Theodore Roosevelt has reportedly said nothing publicly about any American role in Panama's independence, except that it was proper, legal and none of Colombia's business. Insiders expect his version to be shorter later.
Historians can confirm that in 1911, in a speech at the University of California, Roosevelt will say: 'I took the Isthmus, started the canal and then left Congress not to debate the canal, but to debate me.' Asked about the speech today, the White House said it had not given it yet, but liked the sound of it.
Satire. For what actually happened, see the “What really happened” box in the full issue.