Demolition, disease, and death: Building the Panama Canal | Alex Gendler

The California Gold Rush highlighted the need for a faster route between the coasts, leading to the idea of a canal through Panama. The French first attempted this colossal project but failed due to engineering challenges and diseases. The US, seizing the opportunity, supported Panama's independence from Colombia and successfully completed the canal by 1913. The canal, with its innovative lock system, became a vital maritime passage and a source of national pride and revenue for Panama.

What was the primary reason for the construction of a canal through the Isthmus of Panama?

• To connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans for faster shipping routes.

• To create a new trade route to Europe.

• To establish a new settlement for gold miners.

• To provide a new route for the transcontinental railroad.

What was a major challenge faced by the French during their attempt to build the Panama Canal?

• Lack of funding from European investors.

• Inability to find a suitable location for the canal.

• Frequent landslides and tropical diseases.

• Opposition from local Panamanian leaders.

How did the United States plan to overcome the challenges faced by the French in building the canal?

• By using advanced drilling technology from Europe.

• By digging a deeper canal at sea level.

• By constructing a series of locks to raise ships over the mountains.

• By rerouting the canal through Nicaragua.

What was the purpose of the Gatun Dam in the construction of the Panama Canal?

• To create a reservoir for the lock system.

• To provide hydroelectric power for the canal operations.

• To prevent flooding in the surrounding areas.

• To serve as a tourist attraction.

What was the significance of the Culebra Cut in the construction of the Panama Canal?

• It was the site of the largest dam built for the canal.

• It was the location of the first lock system.

• It was the most challenging part of the excavation through the Continental Divide.

• It was the first section of the canal to be completed.

What event marked the completion of the Panama Canal construction?

• The official opening ceremony attended by world leaders.

• A telegraph signal triggering a dike explosion.

• The signing of a treaty between the U.S. and Panama.

• The first ship passing through the canal.

How has the Panama Canal impacted Panama since it gained control in 1999?

• It has become a major tourist attraction.

• It has significantly increased the country's revenue and national pride.

• It has led to political instability in the region.

• It has reduced the country's reliance on foreign aid.