Miraflores Locks Opening for Ships

One of man’s greatest engineering achievements is the Panama Canal which cuts across Central America connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

The 50 mile long canal is a series of locks, or water filled chambers that raise and lower ships.  It took almost 35 years to build, from 1880 to 1914.

Steam shoves and hand picks were used to dredge and cut through jugles, hills and swamps.  Tropical diseases took the lives of thousands of workers.  Visit http://www.panamacanalmuseum.org for more pictures and stories.

The canal was built by the United States under a treaty with Panama.  It was agreed, the U.S. would operate the canal and control a 10 mile wide Zone around it.   In 1979, the treaties and negotiations concluded and control was given to the Panamanian government.

The partnership with the two countries was a benefit to the whole world.  The shipping distance around South America was cut by over 7,800 miles.   Today, the average voyage takes only 8-10 hours.

The Panamanian government has begun a 10 year project to expand the canal and open a third lane of travel.  The size of ships has grown and the traffic is significant through the canal.

Cruiseship Going Thru the Locks

Many feel that Panama is leading the growth of Central and South America.  It is seen as an economic hub between the the two continents.  Panama City’s skyline is rapidly growing as developers, merchants and people discover the stable economy and beauty of the country.

The canal is evidence that countries and commerce can work together.   In 1880 it was an unbelievable project that demonstrated man’s ability to conquer rocks and water.  It still proves today that we can work together for the benefit of everyone.

Let’s continue our journey further into Panama next time…  Joy