Question

Which explains why Roosevelt offered U.S. naval support to Panamanian rebels fighting for independence from Colombia?

Answer 1

The main reason why Roosevelt offered U.S. naval support to Panamanian rebels fighting for independence from Colombia was because "B.The Colombian government would not allow the United States to have control over the Panama Canal Zone," since this was considered vital to US economic interests. 

Answer 2

B. The Colombian government would not allow the United States to have control over the Panama Canal Zone.

The US began negotiations with the Colombian government for a canal however they were not willing to give up control of the area to the US. The US worked with the Panamanians who wanted independence from Colombia. They were willing to give the US control of the canal zone in exchange for help against the Colombians. When Panama became an independent country, the US was able to build the canal and take possession of the area which increased the efficiency of transporting goods to the west coast of the US.