Ep 4. Panama Canal

In season 23, episode 4 of American Experience, titled "Panama Canal," viewers are taken on a journey through the immense engineering feat that is the Panama Canal. The episode explores the history of the canal, beginning with the initial failed attempts at its construction by the French in the late 1800s, and culminating with the successful completion by the United States in 1914.

Using archival footage and expert commentary from historians, engineers, and Panama Canal workers, the episode provides a comprehensive look at the challenges faced during the canal's construction, including disease outbreaks, funding issues, and the daunting task of digging through mountains.

Viewers will learn about the important role played by American President Theodore Roosevelt in pushing for the construction of the canal and his involvement in negotiating with the newly formed Republic of Panama, as well as the impact the canal had on global trade and politics.

The episode also explores the human toll of the canal's construction, including the mistreatment of Caribbean and Latin American workers who were brought in to work on the project, the high mortality rates from disease and accidents, and the displacement of indigenous communities.

Overall, "Panama Canal" is a fascinating look at one of the world's most impressive engineering feats and the complex history that surrounds it. It sheds light on the people and events that shaped the building of the Canal, and the enduring legacy it has had on global trade and politics.