In 1978 President Carter convinced the U.S. Senate to ratify a treaty that would turn over the to Panama by the end of 1999.?

In 1978, President Jimmy Carter successfully advocated for the ratification of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, which facilitated the gradual transfer of control of the Panama Canal from the United States to Panama. The treaties stipulated that U.S. sovereignty over the canal would end on December 31, 1999, ensuring that Panama would gain full control over the vital waterway. This decision aimed to improve U.S.-Latin American relations and acknowledge Panamanian sovereignty. The transfer ultimately took place as planned, marking a significant moment in U.S. foreign policy.