Short History Of... The Panama Canal
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Dec 9, 2024 
Julie Greene, a Professor of History at the University of Maryland and author of *The Canal Builders*, dives deep into the colossal endeavor of the Panama Canal. She discusses the project's numerous failures and the staggering human cost involved. Listeners learn about the health crises that plagued laborers, the pivotal U.S. political maneuvers that led to its revival, and the engineering decisions that shaped this man-made marvel. Greene highlights the enduring legacy of the canal in transforming global trade and its profound impact on the workforce.
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French Failure
- The French, after the Suez Canal's success, attempted the Panama Canal under Ferdinand de Lesseps.
- Disease, difficult terrain, and mismanagement led to their failure after eight years.
Bunau-Varilla's Lobbying
- Philippe Bunau-Varilla, after the French failure, lobbied the U.S. to take over the project.
- He highlighted Panama's advantages over Nicaragua, using media and diplomacy.
Roosevelt's Vision
- Theodore Roosevelt saw the canal as vital for U.S. power.
- He supported Panama's independence from Colombia to secure favorable treaty terms.
