History of the Panama Canal
During the 16th century, the Spanish had dreamed of channeling across the isthmus. But due to poor machineries and skills, the dream didn't come to a reality. In the 19th century, a French engineer, Ferdinand De Lesseps Known for the Suez Canal, was backed up by the French company, as work began in 1878. He said: “Our work will be easier at Panama than at Suez,” but failed to recognize the difference. By 1887, however, the harsh and uncontrollable diseases, and engineering setbacks had bankrupted the French company.