**Panama Canal**
The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway that spans the Isthmus of Panama, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It was constructed to provide a shorter and faster maritime route for ships, avoiding the lengthy and hazardous Cape Horn route at the southern tip of South America. The canal extends approximately 50 miles from Panama City on the Pacific side to Colón on the Atlantic side.
The canal operates through a system of locks that raise and lower ships, allowing them to pass through the different elevation levels of the land. Being one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century, its construction was completed in 1914 and has since been a vital conduit for international maritime trade. The use of the canal significantly reduces the travel distance for ships, which, in turn, diminishes the time and cost of transportation of goods.
The Panama Canal also has strategic geopolitical importance, influencing trade patterns, global shipping, and the economies of many nations. It is operated by the Panama Canal Authority (Autoridad del Canal de Panamá or ACP), a government agency of Panama.
Here are two resources where you can find more information about the Panama Canal:
1. Panama Canal Authority (Autoridad del Canal de Panamá) – This is the official website of the Panama Canal, where you can find detailed information about the canal’s history, operations, services, and expansion projects. It also provides news, multimedia presentations, and resources for planning a visit to the canal. The website is available in multiple languages for international visitors.
URL: (" target="_blank">https://www.pancanal.com](https://www.pancanal.com/ rel="nofollow">https://www.pancanal.com/)
2. Britannica – As a reputable source of reliable information, Britannica offers a comprehensive overview that includes the history, construction, and significance of the Panama Canal. The entry is frequently updated and provides insights into the challenges and engineering marvels associated with the canal.
URL: (https://www.britannica.com/topic/Panama-Canal)
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