What did Theodore Roosevelt's "Big Stick Diplomacy" symbolize?

The concept of "Big Stick Diplomacy," attributed to Theodore Roosevelt, symbolizes a pragmatic approach to foreign policy that emphasizes the use of military force when deemed necessary to achieve and protect national interests. The phrase originates from Roosevelt's assertion that "the exercise of intelligent forethought and of decisive action sufficiently near together to be the same phenomenon" includes a strong military presence as a deterrent while primarily advocating for negotiation and diplomacy.

Roosevelt believed that a show of military strength could be an effective means of persuading other nations to cooperate while still maintaining an emphasis on negotiation. This approach was evident in events such as the construction of the Panama Canal, where Roosevelt used the threat of military intervention to secure control over the area and influence in Latin America. Thus, the clear notion of reinforcing diplomatic efforts with the readiness to use military action when necessary is captured in this interpretation of Roosevelt's policy.