• The Construction of The Panama Canal

  • Sep 15 2023
  • Length: 6 mins
  • Podcast

The Construction of The Panama Canal

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  • Summary

  • The Panama Canal, one of the most significant man-made waterways in the world, began construction in 1881 by French companies, but halted due to financial issues and tropical diseases. America took over the project in 1904, supervised by Theodore Roosevelt, after helping aid Panama's independence from Colombia. The construction involved constructing a massive dam for an artificial lake and a system of three locks for raising and lowering ships. Roughly 40,000 workers were employed, many from Barbados, and they had to battle difficult terrain, harsh weather and a high mortality rate due to diseases like Yellow Fever and Malaria. Engineers also found solutions for the disposal of large amounts of excavated soil. The construction was completed in 1914, a significant engineering marvel, allowing for faster and safer marine transport between the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans. The Panama Canal symbolized America’s global power and technological prowess, but also reflected imperialistic and racially discriminatory attitudes. The canal's operation was transferred to Panama in 1999.

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