The Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway in Panama that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Opened in 1914, it allows ships to avoid the long and dangerous route around the southern tip of South America. The canal uses a system of locks to raise and lower ships across the Isthmus of Panama, accommodating changes in elevation. Its strategic location has made it vital for international trade, significantly reducing travel time for maritime shipping. The canal is considered one of the engineering marvels of the world and remains crucial for global commerce today.