United States Invasion of Panama Facts for Kids

The United States Invasion of Panama, also known as Operation Just Cause, was when the United States sent its military into Panama. This happened in December 1989 and January 1990. It took place during the time George H. W. Bush was the U.S. President. This event happened ten years after the Torrijos–Carter Treaties, which were agreements that said the U.S. would give control of the Panama Canal to Panama by January 1, 2000.

Operation Just Cause Rangers 3rd sqd la comadancia small

U.S. Army soldiers getting ready to take over La Comandancia in Panama City in December 1989.

During this operation, Panama's leader, Manuel Noriega, was removed from his position. The elected president, Guillermo Endara, then took over. Also, Panama's military, called the Panamanian Defense Force, was officially ended.

What Was Operation Just Cause?
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What Was Operation Just Cause?

Operation Just Cause was the name given to the military action by the United States in Panama. The main goal was to remove Manuel Noriega from power. He was the military leader of Panama at the time. The U.S. also wanted to protect American citizens living there. Another goal was to make sure the Panama Canal stayed open and safe.

Why Did the U.S. Invade Panama?

There were several reasons why the U.S. decided to invade Panama.

Protecting U.S. Citizens: The U.S. government said that Noriega's actions were putting American citizens in Panama at risk.
Protecting the Panama Canal: The U.S. wanted to make sure the Panama Canal, an important waterway, remained safe and open for ships.
Supporting Democracy: The U.S. wanted to help bring a democratically elected government to power in Panama.

What Happened During the Invasion?

The invasion began on December 20, 1989. Thousands of U.S. troops were involved. They launched attacks on many important places in Panama at the same time. The fighting was intense in some areas, especially in the capital, Panama City.

The Panamanian Defense Force, Noriega's military, tried to fight back. However, the U.S. forces were much larger and better equipped. The fighting lasted for several days. Many buildings were damaged, especially in the El Chorrillo neighborhood of Panama City.

Manuel Noriega managed to escape the initial attacks. He hid for a few days before seeking safety in the Vatican embassy. After a standoff, he eventually surrendered to U.S. forces in early January 1990.

What Were the Results of Operation Just Cause?

The invasion had several important results for Panama and the United States.

New Leadership: Manuel Noriega was removed from power. Guillermo Endara, who had won the election earlier, became the new president of Panama.
Military Changes: The Panamanian Defense Force was dissolved. Panama no longer had a standing army. Instead, it created a new police force.
Panama Canal: The U.S. continued to work towards handing over full control of the Panama Canal to Panama. This happened as planned on January 1, 2000.
Rebuilding Panama: After the invasion, efforts were made to help Panama rebuild. The U.S. provided aid to help with the damage caused by the fighting.

The invasion was a big event in the history of both the United States and Panama. It changed the political landscape of Panama and marked a new chapter in its relationship with the U.S.