6 key events in P.C. history

  • Jan 1, 1543

    Original Idea

    In the year 1534,King Charles I of Spain ordered a survey to build a route between the atlantic and pacific oceans.
  • Work Begins

    On May 4th, 1904, work begins in panama shortly panama seceeded from Columbia on November 3rd, 1903.
  • Final Touch

    The last of the 92 miter gates of the panama canal were installed.
  • Trial Run

    Nearly 11 months before the opening of the canal, the first trial run was made by a tug boat named Gatun through the Gatun lock.
  • New Owners

    At noon on December 31st, 1999, under president Mireya Moscoso, the panama canal was transfered back to panama.
  • New Proposal

    On October 22nd, 2006, the citizens of panama approved the expansion of the canal through referendum.
  • Construction

    The expansion of the canal begins after six years of studying.
  • 100 years

    This marks the 100 year period in which the panama canal has united business, trade, and opportunities with the world.