Always Has Been: Chapter 1: Completion of the Suez Canal in 1869

The Suez Canal was completed in 1869, creating a direct maritime link between the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea. Spanning 120 miles, it revolutionized global trade by significantly reducing the sea journey from Europe to Asia, eliminating the need to circumnavigate Africa. The Canal's opening had profound economic impacts, facilitating increased trade and commerce. It symbolized a monumental achievement of 19th-century engineering and international cooperation, showcasing the transformative power of infrastructure.