French Company of the Suez Canal

The French Company of the Suez Canal, founded in 1858 by Ferdinand de Lesseps, was responsible for constructing and operating the Suez Canal, a vital waterway that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. The canal significantly shortened travel times for ships between Europe and Asia, boosting global trade. The project faced engineering challenges and widespread labor issues but was completed in 1869. Although initially successful, the company faced financial difficulties and political pressures, leading to Egypt nationalizing the canal in 1956. Today, the Suez Canal remains an essential route for international shipping.