Buildings in Process of Construction and Zone Police Cristobal - Panama (Construction Period)

In the 1880s, France, led by Ferdinand de Lesseps (who built the Suez Canal), began construction on a sea-level canal. This effort was plagued by disease, engineering challenges, and financial difficulties, ultimately failing. ?

United States Involvement:In 1902, the United States purchased the French assets and equipment for $40 million. ?

In 1903, with the backing of the US, Panama declared its independence from Colombia. The US then signed a treaty with the new Panamanian government for the right to build and control the canal. ?

In 1904, construction began under US leadership. The initial challenges included disease (yellow fever, malaria), landslides, and the need to develop a lock-based system instead of the originally planned sea-level canal. ?

In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt visited Panama, becoming the first sitting US president to travel outside the country. This highlighted the importance of the project to his administration. ?

From 1907 to 1914, Major George Washington Goethals took over as chief engineer and oversaw the majority of the construction, which included the massive Gatun Dam and locks.

Completion and Opening: On August 15, 1914, the Panama Canal officially opened to shipping. The first ship to transit the canal was the SS Ancon

Dated: Circa 1904
Condition Report Good Plus

Subject References: 168BX