The Importance of the Panama Canal

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The Panama Canal
During the construction of the Panama Canal, tens of thousands of workers worked, sacrificed, and died for the cause. The building of the canal was crucial for the American and European countries. With technological advances of the late 19th century and increased pressure from the industrial powerhouses of Europe and the United States, the decision to begin construction was taken (Source 2). The Panama Canal, considered as one of the greatest achievements in history, was an international waterway that allowed ships to pass between the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean (Source 3). It was previously controlled by France, which would then be sold to the United States. The Panama Canal was essential to the United States because of its commercial value and importance in the development of U.S. imperialism and power.
Firstly, the Panama Canal was revolutionary because of its commercial value. It helped merchants by shortening the journey from both European and U.S. merchant ships traveling east from the Californian coast (Source 2). Without the canal, any ships setting s...

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