The Suez Canal's Impact on Global Trade and History

The Suez Canal is a crucial waterway connecting the East and West, facilitating global trade. It gained attention in March 2021 when the Ever Given ship blocked it, causing significant economic losses. Historically, many attempts were made to connect the Mediterranean and Red Seas, with Napoleon showing interest. The canal, completed in 1869, does not use locks due to similar water levels. Recent expansions allow larger ships to pass, doubling daily capacity. The canal is vital for global trade, handling 30% of container traffic. Future expansions aim to accommodate even larger ships, underscoring its economic significance.

What major event in 2021 highlighted the global significance of the Suez Canal?

• A new canal was constructed.

• The Ever Given ship blocked the canal.

• A new trade agreement was signed.

• The canal was closed for maintenance.

Which historical figure attempted to connect the Mediterranean and Red Seas but failed?

• Genghis Khan

• Napoleon Bonaparte

• Julius Caesar

• Alexander the Great

What is a unique feature of the Suez Canal compared to the Panama Canal?

• It uses a system of locks.

• It is longer than the Panama Canal.

• It does not require locks due to similar sea levels.

• It was built in the 20th century.

What is the maximum speed allowed for ships passing through the Suez Canal?

• 20 miles per hour

• 15 miles per hour

• 9 miles per hour

• 5 miles per hour

What is the primary reason for the Suez Canal's ongoing expansions?

• To improve environmental conditions

• To reduce construction costs

• To accommodate larger ships

• To increase tourism

How did the new Suez Canal expansion impact the number of ships passing through daily?

• It doubled the number of ships.

• It reduced the number of ships.

• It decreased the number of ships by half.

• It had no impact on the number of ships.

What percentage of global trade passes through the Suez Canal?

• 30%

• 5%

• 25%

• 12%

How much cargo, in terms of value, passes through the Suez Canal daily?

• $15 billion

• $9 billion

• $1 billion

• $5 billion

What would be the impact on global trade if the Suez Canal were to close for a few days?

• A major disruption to the world economy

• A significant increase in trade

• No impact at all

• Minimal impact

What is the main advantage of the Suez Canal for ships traveling between Europe and Asia?

• It has better weather conditions.

• It offers cheaper tolls than other routes.

• It provides a scenic route.

• It reduces travel time by avoiding the African coast.