Signed in 1850 by the United States and Britain, the Clayton-Bulwer Treaty was an agreement that both nations were not to colonize or control any Central American republic. The purpose was to prevent one country from building a canal across Central America that the other would not be able to use. If a canal were built, it would be protected by both nations for neutrality and security. Any canal built would be open to all nations on equal terms.

See also

• Nicaragua Canal
• Panama Canal
• Hay-Pauncefote Treaty
• Hay-Herran Treaty
• Hay-Bunau Varilla Treaty